c.1927 Austin 12/4 Heavy Tickford All-Weather Saloon
Sold for £10,350
(including buyers premium)
Lot details Registration No: TO 7590 Chassis No: 44854 Mot Expiry: None
Introduced in late 1921, the Austin 12 (later known as the 'Heavy 12/4') became a legend within its own production lifetime. In many ways a scaled-down version of the existing 20/4 model, it was based around a sturdy ladder-frame chassis equipped with rod-operated drum brakes and all-round semi-elliptic leaf-sprung suspension. Powered by a 1661cc sidevalve four-cylinder engine allied to four-speed manual transmission, the newcomer could be had with a variety of open or closed body styles and even saw service in the carriage trade. Updated in 1927, the 12 gained a longer-stroke 1861cc powerplant, higher scuttle and wider track. Renowned for its durability and dependability, the Austin has long held a special place in Vintage car circles.
Finished in dark blue over black with black leather upholstery, this particular example wears Tickford `All Weather' Saloon coachwork by Salmons & Sons. Attributed to Salmons' employee Arthur Dalby Balls Esq, the `All Weather' design debuted on Minerva and Bianchi chassis at the October 1925 Olympia Motor Show. Hailed by The Autocar as "a striking development of adaptably designed bodywork", it featured a retractable hood mechanism operated by inserting and turning a handle in the rear three-quarter panel. A costly option when new, we are nevertheless informed that the Austin Club Registrar knows of two other Vintage 12/4s that are fitted with Tickford `All Weather' Saloon coachwork (as well as a few 1930s cars). Seemingly garaged for much of its life, chassis number 44854 has been housed in the prestigious Donington Collection for the past twenty years. First registered in Nottingham (or so the `TO' prefix shown on its number plates would imply), the Austin is now in need of restoration. Nicely detailed with an elegant split-pane opening windscreen, folding luggage rack, well-stocked wooden dashboard and sundry nickel-plated fittings, chassis 44854 has the makings of a rewarding project.
PLEASE NOTE: There are no documents with this vehicle except for 4 old road tax discs.
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