Armstrong Siddeley Sapphire 346 History

Announced in late 1952 for the 1953 model year, the Sapphire 346 was a complete break from the upright post-war styling and represented Armstrong Siddeley's entry into the modern luxury-car era. Its 3,435 cc six-cylinder engine used hemispherical combustion chambers for 125 bhp in standard form, rising to 150 bhp with optional twin Stromberg carburettors — enough for a top speed in excess of 100 mph. The '346' designation referred to its RAC horsepower rating. A long-wheelbase limousine version was offered alongside the standard saloon.

Transmission choices included a four-speed synchromesh gearbox or the Wilson preselector, and independent front coil springs with a live rear axle gave a ride quality appropriate to its luxury class. The Sapphire 346 attracted export orders and press praise, and its 7,697 total production made it by far the most commercially successful model in Armstrong Siddeley's history. It was succeeded in 1958 by the larger and more powerful Star Sapphire.