1935 Austin 12/4 Light Ascot Saloon

Lot details
Registration No: 561 UXN
Chassis No: H20900
Mot Expiry: 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 described by the vendor as being in "excellent" condition with regard to its engine, four-speed manual gearbox, electrical equipment, bodywork and paintwork, while he rates the interior trim as "good". 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 (leather repaired/re-Connollised, new carpets, door panels, headlining), extensive engine overhaul (including conversion to unleaded), re-chromed bumpers, rejuvenated sunroof and new clutch".

It was purchased by its next keeper via our November 2005 Buxton auction, in whose care it is understood to have covered approximately 800 miles before being acquired by the vendor at our April 2009 sale. 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.

PLEASE NOTE: This vehicle has an MOT until June 2012.