1938 Austin 12/4 New Ascot Cabriolet

Highlights

• Believed to be one of as few as three surviving cabriolet examples
• Cared for by an Austin enthusiast in Northern Ireland for a number of years
• Recently benefitted from head gasket replacement, head skim, radiator flush and full service
• Body described as very sound with good chrome, leather interior and intact hood

The Appeal

By the 1930s, Austin were really becoming synonymous with eminently drivable, capable cars. The 12/4 was a nice, straightforward principle - sticking a 1535cc side-valve, four-cylinder engine with 24bhp into their standard chassis.
By 1937, the Ascot saw some changes. The engine was moved forward to give a roomier cabin, while the bodywork was smoothed into an attractive, rounded silhouette, and the car was also treated to an adjustable steering column. It was an elegant, willing sort of car, and quickly saw all manner of body styles - none quite so scarce as the Cabriolet. Produced in modest numbers, survival has been predictably thin, and it's now become a piece of impressive '30s exotica.

This dark blue example has been in the care of an Austin enthusiast in Northern Ireland for a number of years, during which time it has been kept in good running order. It has recently received significant mechanical attention and the vendor reports it starts easily and drives well. A truly impressive, distinguished little classic, eagerly awaiting its new keeper.

Key Information

• Mileage: 34,097 miles (indicated)
• Country of registration: United Kingdom
• Technical inspection status: MOT exempt
• Technical specs: 1,500cc four-cylinder petrol, three-speed manual, right-hand drive
• Paperwork: Limited paperwork available

The Detail

• Head gasket recently replaced
• Cylinder head recently skimmed
• Radiator recently flushed and checked
• Recently received a full service
• The vendor states the car starts very easily and drives well
• Bodywork appears sound, with age-commensurate patina
• Gentle wear to the paintwork
• Leather seats in good age-commensurate order, with some creasing
• Original carpets showing wear in places
• Hood free from tears or rips and reportedly lowering correctly
• Interior lining of the hood is in fine order

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.

✓ Unless stated otherwise, you must assume that any cherished, personalised, or heritage vehicle registration is not included in the sale of a vehicle.