Armstrong Siddeley

Introduced in late 1952 for the 1953 model year, the Armstrong Siddeley Sapphire 346 was a large and luxurious British saloon distinguished by the marque’s traditional Sphinx-topped grille. Its 3.4-litre six-cylinder engine produced 125 bhp, or 150 bhp with optional twin carburettors, allowing speeds above 160 km/h. Buyers could choose between a four-speed manual or Armstrong Siddeley’s characteristic preselector transmission, while Hydramatic automatic transmission became available in 1954. The spacious interior featured leather upholstery and walnut trim, and both four- and six-light body styles were offered. A long-wheelbase limousine joined the range in 1955. Smaller 234 and 236 Sapphires subsequently broadened the range. The 346 remained the principal Sapphire until 1958, when the more powerful four-litre Star Sapphire succeeded it.