1928 Austin 12 'Heavy' Clifton Tourer

After the First World War, like most other motor car manufacturers of the time, Austin focussed on a ‘high end’ product in the Austin 20 introduced in 1919. When sales of this model were slower than expected, the Twelve, effectively a scaled down version was introduced in 1921. With a four cylinder side valve engine (increased from 1,661 cc to 1,861 cc in 1926), mated to a four speed gearbox, live rear axle and perpendicular styling, this model enjoyed much more success, with sales peaking at 14,000 units in 1927. These motor cars came to enjoy a great reputation for dependability, which continues to this day.

This 1928 example has benefited from a recent restoration of the bodywork and trim, as a result of which the condition of the bodywork is understood to be very good, with the interior re-trimmed in new blue leather. The hood and side screens have been recovered with black vinyl, and there is also a new tonneau cover. Mechanically, the vendor describes the vehicle to be in very good condition, with the gearbox and rear axle assessed as quiet. The original magneto has been replaced by a coil and distributor conversion, and a new radiator core has recently been replaced. New tyres are fitted all round, and direction indicators have been added in the interests of safety.

In summary, this Austin provides the opportunity to acquire a very solid open vintage tourer, with many of the characteristics so typical of the period. It comes with a V5C registration certificate, facsimile 1928 tax disc, various recent invoices, and an original parts list.