Lot details
Registration No: BDF 959
Chassis No: 47461/18
Mot Expiry: Sept 2010

Part of the revised Austin range introduced for the 1935 season, the six-cylinder 16hp and 18hp cars could be had in standard or long wheelbase guises and with a choice of Westminster, Chalfont, York or Hertford saloon coachwork. A six-light design mounted on the extended chassis, the York model boasted a Pytchley sliding roof, low floor, wide doors, large windows and separately adjustable front seats. Equipped with all-round semi-elliptic leaf-sprung suspension and four-wheel drum brakes, the 18hp variant was powered by a 2511cc sidevalve straight-six allied to four-speed manual transmission. Although no sportscar, it was reputedly capable of 65mph and 20mpg. Priced at £328, the 18hp York Saloon was available in Royal Blue, Maroon, Westminster Green, Black or Ash Grey, while its interior could be trimmed in Hide, Bedford Cord or Moquette upholstery (occasional seats were a £7 10s 0d extra). Well regarded machines, the six-cylinder 16hp and 18hp cars are thought to have accounted for 12,731 sales between 1935 and 1937. Though, today survivors are few and far between.

Finished in black with wine coloured upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "excellent" condition with regard to its engine, interior trim, bodywork and paintwork, while, he rates the four-speed manual gearbox and electrical equipment as "good". Reportedly the subject of past restoration work including a bare metal repaint, replacement cylinder head, kingpin / brake system overhaul and the installation of flashing indicators to its rear lights, the Austin is further understood to have spent six years as part of a major Staffordshire collection before entering the current ownership during 2003. Since then the former multi award winner has apparently covered less than 1,000 miles. Retaining a wealth of period features, its beguiling interior boasts a well stocked dashboard and two fold-away occasional seats as well as rear and side window blinds. Kept garaged when not in use, this rare and imposing York saloon is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until September 2010.