Footnotes

• 'There is a remarkable blending of qualities in the six-cylinder Austin... The effect is to give a vehicle which is exceptionally pleasing to both driver and passengers, though looking at the car superficially it is not all easy to determine why this should be the case, for it is a straightforward design and of quiet appearance.' – The Autocar.
  Autocar was, in fact, referring to the 16hp Austin, but what that esteemed motoring magazine said about the typically understated but nevertheless well engineered Austin six applies equally to the 18hp version. First shown in 1926, Austin's new six was built initially in 20hp (3,400cc) and 16hp (2,249cc) sidevalve-engined versions before an 18hp (2,510cc) model on the smaller chassis joined the range in 1933. The Sixteen/Eighteen shared its frame with the Heavy 12/4 and was updated in similar fashion, gaining synchromesh gears for 1934 and a painted radiator grille as part of a major restyle for 1935. Built in five-seater and seven-seater saloon variants, the Eighteen lasted until 1937, the Sixteen having been dropped from the range the previous year. Rugged and dependable, the Austins of the 1930s are among the easiest of that period's cars to own and maintain and are supported by an enthusiastic owners' club.
  Believed unique, this rare 1930s Austin carries coachwork by Salmons & Sons of Newport Pagnell, one of the most commercially successful of all British coachbuilders and originators of the 'Tickford' all-weather saloon body, of which this is an example. The body features the Salmons' patented, quick-action, wind-down hood mechanism, which enables the car to be transformed from a snug saloon into an open tourer while still offering a great deal of wind and weather protection to the occupants.
  'AXX 914' was previously owned by a Mr McDonald of London and is believed to have been used as a taxicab during WW2. The present owners sent the car away to be restored but because of unforeseen circumstances only some work on the engine has been completed, which it is hoped will be in running order by the time of sale. We are advised that an application was made to the DVLA for a registration document but the vendors were told that the original records had been destroyed by fire. There are no documents with this Lot, which is offered for restoration and sold strictly as viewed. No reserve.
  

Auction Notices

• The engine rebuild has not been completed and the engine is still partially dismantled, the restorer responsible for this is happy to be contacted by the purchaser to advise them what remains to be done.

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Category: Motoring / Motor Cars

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