Description
Austin Ascot Light 12/ 4: Restored/ Show Winner
Austin introduced this new car in September 1932. It was made by fitting a 1535 cc side-valve, four-cylinder engine with 24 bhp output into the same chassis as they had been making since late 1930 for their six-cylinder 12/ 6 which was also in the same 12 hp class. This new four cylinder engine was coupled to a four-speed "crash" gearbox at first, but a new transmission with synchromesh on third and top speed appeared in 1934 and then also on second in 1935.
At Milestone Classics we do like to keep a small number of 1930/ 40/ 50’s cars in stock for our discerning customers. With Jamie’s keen eye and knowledge, we have developed an enviable reputation for selling the nicest, most usable and keenly priced examples from this era of motoring.
On Wednesday 31st January 1934 in a frosty London Sir Lawrence Magerison CBE took delivery of his new Austin and went on to retain his 12/ 4 for the next 20 years. Fast forward 90 years and the car has featured in “Poirot” (DVD in history file) as well as appearing in Vintage Austin magazine and shown regularly throughout the UK and Channel Islands winning many accolades including the Vintage Austin Register Class Winner (2017 National) and the Austin Ten Drivers Club (2018 National) in the process.
During 2009/ 10 the car was the subject of a mechanical restoration and detailed body/ interior refurbishment which has stood the test of time extremely well – she is simply one of the best in the county.
On the road the car drives bang on. The most recent owner has used his Ascot regularly and maintained her to an exceptional standard. Most recent work has included a new starter motor & bushes (£600), fully reglazed (£1, 250) and a rear diff rebuild (£2, 000)
The history file includes a summary of previous owners, MOT certificates dating since 1987, tax discs, lots and lots of invoices, various pictures, handbooks and documents.
Pre-war cars have remarkable charm that harks back to a bygone age and this Austin is one of the best driving and prettiest examples that you could wish to own.
Ready to use and enjoy at shows, trips to the pub, film work or simply a run out with a picnic basket our lovely 12/ 4 will provide lots of happy memories for the lucky new owners.
