Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire Tyres
Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire MK 1
Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire Tyres
- Longstone classic Tyres recommend the classic 670 R 16 Avon Turbosteel. Fitting a radial tyre will improve the directional stability and be more sure-footed on the road. This will reduce the wandering effect of a crossply which is always beneficial when cruising at high speeds on modern roads.
- If you desire a crossply then we suggest the 670 H 16 Avon Turbospeed.
- The ideal Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire innertube for these tyres is the Michelin 16F innertube.
- If you opt for an alternative tyre, and you're not sure which innertube you need, see our innertube guide for more information.
Classic Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire
The first classic Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire saloon prototype was based on a 346 Sapphire chassis that had been modified. The production models took over for the Sapphire in late 1958 and lasted until the summer of 1960. Twin Zenith carburettors were installed to boost the performance of the six-cylinder engine. On the front wheels, servo-assisted 12" Girling disc brakes were employed, and power steering was fitted. Typically, a Borg-Warner type DG automatic gearbox was used.
There were 902 saloons made, as well as 77 long-wheelbase automobiles, 73 of which were limos. The classic limousine variant was only produced in 1960 and had a single-carburettor engine and a manual transmission. There were 980 Star Sapphires made. British publication The Motor examined the legendary Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire sedan with an automatic gearbox in 1959. It could reach a maximum speed of 99.6 mph and accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 14.8 seconds. The test vehicle cost £2,498 plus £735 in taxes; just over £64000 in today's money (October 2021).