1930 Austin Six All-weather Saloon
Coachwork by Salmons & Sons
Registration no. See Text

'There is a remarkable blending of good qualities in the six-cylinder Austin Sixteen. 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 at all easy to determine why this should be the case, for it is a straightforward design and of quiet appearance.' - The Autocar, August 12th 1932.

First shown in 1926, Austin's new six-cylinder model was built initially in 20hp (3,400cc) and 16hp (2,249cc) versions. The Sixteen shared its chassis with the Heavy 12/4, from which it was distinguished by the 'Austin Six' script on the radiator and wire wheels, the latter being introduced in 1928. Autocar particularly liked the six-cylinder engine, which it found ran 'very nicely indeed, smoothly, quietly and with a real willingness to get going if the driver chooses.' Periodically updated and restyled, the Sixteen lasted in production until 1936.

At time of cataloguing it had not been possible positively to identify this six-cylinder Austin, which appears to be a 16hp model dating from circa 1930. The car 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 a fine example. The body features Salmons' patented, quick-action, wind-down hood mechanism, which enables the car to be transformed from a snug saloon into an open tourer in moments while still offering a great deal of wind and weather protection to the occupants.

Rugged and dependable, Austins of the late 1920s and 1930s are among the easiest of contemporary cars to own and maintain, and are supported by an enthusiastic owners' club. There are no documents with this Lot and it is not currently registered, but is expected to be Irish registered by the time of sale.