Description
The Crossley 18/50 HP Touring Car was a refined and capable open-bodied vehicle produced by Crossley Motors Ltd during the late 1920s. Built on the same mechanical foundation as the 18/50 HP Saloon, this variant offered all the engineering advancements of the saloon model, but with the freedom and flair of an open-top touring car. It was aimed at motorists who valued smooth performance, mechanical reliability, and the enjoyment of open-air motoring.
At the heart of the car was a 2.7-litre six-cylinder engine that delivered around 50 brake horsepower. It was rated at 18 RAC horsepower for tax classification, a common practice in Britain at the time. The engine employed an overhead valve layout and was known for its smooth and quiet operation—qualities that marked a shift towards more refined motoring in the post-Edwardian era. Coupled with a four-speed manual gearbox, the engine allowed for effortless cruising and a relaxed, flexible driving style.
The touring body typically featured seating for four to five passengers in an open configuration. A folding canvas hood could be raised for protection against poor weather, and side curtains were often included for additional shelter. The interior was practical but comfortable, with leather upholstery and minimal, yet well-crafted, fittings. A flat or slightly tapered rear end provided luggage space or room for a spare wheel, depending on the configuration.
Visually, the car maintained a clean and elegant profile. Its long bonnet, upright radiator, flowing wings, and simple body lines gave it a dignified but unpretentious look. Wire wheels or artillery-style wheels completed the appearance, giving it a purposeful stance well-suited to long-distance touring.
The chassis construction was solid and used a traditional ladder-frame design. Suspension came from semi-elliptic leaf springs front and rear, offering a smooth ride across rougher roads. The inclusion of four-wheel mechanical brakes was a welcome advancement, significantly improving safety and control compared to earlier models with only rear braking. Steering was manual and fairly direct, requiring effort at low speeds but offering good road feel.
The 18/50 HP Touring Car was ideal for country drives, weekend outings, and longer journeys. It was appreciated by owners who enjoyed active driving and the pleasures of the open road, yet who still expected refinement and mechanical robustness. The car combined Crossley’s reputation for durability—built on its earlier military and commercial vehicles—with a more luxurious and leisurely character suitable for private motorists.
Today, the Crossley 18/50 HP Touring Car is a rare sight, with only a handful of examples known to survive. Collectors prize these vehicles for their elegance, mechanical integrity, and the enjoyable driving experience they offer. They stand as a fine representation of British touring cars from the interwar period—well-built, quietly capable, and full of charm.