Austin 12 (1935)

Chassis Number: H20900
Engine Number: E1.H.21121
Cc: 1479
Body Colour: Black / Silver
Trim Colour: Green
MOT ExpiryDate: June 2012

Introduced in 1934, the revamped Austin 12/4 range was distinguished by new more flowing wings, a sculpted radiator cowl and vents (in place of louvers) on its bonnet sides. Underpinned by a sturdy ladder frame chassis equipped with semi-elliptic leaf-sprung suspension and drum brakes all round, it was available in a variety of open and closed guises - eg Tourer, Saloon, Estate, Van etc. Powered by a torquey 1535 cc four-cylinder side-valve engine mated to a four-speed manual gearbox, most 12/4s were capable of achieving around 65mph flat out. The Standard six-light Saloon was dubbed the Harley, while the handsome booted Saloon took the title of Ascot. In 'de luxe' form the 'Ascot' was priced at £204 (some £16 more than its 'Open Road' Tourer sibling). The successful Light 12/4 range was replaced in 1939 after some 71,654 examples had been manufactured.

Finished in Black over Silver with Green leather upholstery, this particular example is in excellent condition both mechanically and cosmetically, it starts on the button and is an absolute joy to drive. Following a period of dry storage, '561 UXN' was acquired by its last but one keeper during December 1995. Requiring little more than some new tyres to pass a MOT test, the Austin was nevertheless treated to an extensive restoration programme that reportedly comprised "a bare metal respray, refurbished interior (leatherwork repaired, new carpets, door panels, headlining), extensive engine overhaul (including conversion to unleaded), re-chromed bumpers, rejuvenated sunroof and a new clutch.

It was purchased by its next keeper in 1995 in whose care it is understood to have covered approximately 800 miles before being acquired by the last keeper in April 2009. He too has been modest with the miles, adding just 440 during his tenure, including the delivery of a groom to his wedding. The car has, however, always been garaged when not in use. Sporting a useful rear-mounted luggage rack, this rare and appealing Austin comes complete with a starting handle and assorted paperwork. Practical '30s-style driving doesn't come much cheaper than this and this would be a delight to own with endless use with touring, show or even to out the car to work with weddings - in fact we have been asked to lend the car to friends for exactly this purpose!

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