1928 Austin Twelve

Highlights

• In current ownership for approximately 25 years, purchased in 2001
• South African provenance
• Hood, side panels, tonneau cover, and hood cover all reported in good condition

The Appeal

Herbert Austin was a man reluctant to change his principles, but after the First World War, he couldn't help but note that the Austin Twenty was suffering poor sales. He had always maintained a single-model policy, but the development had been a pricy endeavour, so he simply condensed it down into the smaller, lighter, cheaper Austin Twelve. It was exactly what the motoring public wanted, and while it may have sacrificed a bit of the marque's luxury image, it made them a real household name.

With its upright stance, fold-flat hood, and characterful four-cylinder engine, the Twelve is undeniably a slice of a world long gone, but it's never been more evocative, and a good example is increasingly hard to find.

This 1928 was purchased in South Africa in 2001 before making its way to the UK, where it has been stored in its owner's barn since 2002. Despite its long slumber, the car has benefited from sensible maintenance and the vendor reports that it runs well. Coming to us with a handsome patina, it's a distinguished opportunity that we're sure will attract plenty of interest.

History and Paperwork

• First registered in 1928; original registration number LBL159GP
• Purchased in 2001 in South Africa with no known history prior to that date
• In current ownership for approximately 25 years
• Stored in the owner's barn since 2002
• Work completed in the UK since 2002: new battery, new tyre, fuel tank removed, cleaned and re-sealed, and electric fuel pump fitted
• SU carburettor was fitted whilst the car was in South Africa

The Condition

• The vendor describes the overall condition as good, with a sound underside
• Steering rods need painting or re-chroming
• Right-side hood frame has scratched the body paintwork
• Luggage rack needs some paint
• Left rear door has some paint damage below the lower hinge
• Horn could use a freshen up
• Right front spring top could use some attention
• Interior reported as sound, with seats and trim in good condition according to the vendor
• Instruments are, however, reportedly a 'bit suspect'
• Hood and side panels are reportedly in good condition; cover for the folded-down hood is included
• Tonneau cover in good condition

The Mechanics

• 1,861cc four-cylinder petrol engine
• 4-speed manual transmission
• Believed to be very mechanically standard save for the SU carburettor and electric fuel pump
• The vendor reports the car is mechanically sound and runs well
• Slight oil leak from the sump gasket

BEFORE YOU BUY

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