Description

The Crossley 19.6 Saloon was a stately and well-engineered motorcar produced by Crossley Motors Ltd during the early to mid-1920s. It was based on the same sturdy 19.6 chassis as the tourer model but featured a fully enclosed body, catering to buyers who required a more formal and weather-protected vehicle. Designed for comfort, reliability, and long-distance travel, the 19.6 Saloon reflected the conservative yet high-quality values that defined Crossley’s approach to car manufacturing.

Powered by a large-capacity four-cylinder engine of approximately 3.6 litres, the 19.6 Saloon was rated at 19.6 RAC horsepower, a figure used for taxation rather than actual performance. The engine produced around 45 to 50 bhp, offering smooth and relatively strong performance for a car of its class and time. With its overhead valve configuration, the engine was designed for durability and steady power delivery, qualities that helped establish Crossley’s reputation for solid, dependable vehicles.

The saloon body provided a fully enclosed passenger compartment with seating for four to five people. The design was upright and formal, with a tall roofline, wide-opening doors, and a spacious rear seating area. Interiors were typically trimmed with leather or cloth upholstery and featured polished wood dashboards and fittings. Some versions included a glass division between the driver and passengers, particularly in chauffeur-driven examples.

The chassis was of a conventional ladder-type construction, equipped with semi-elliptic leaf springs and mechanical brakes. Initially, braking was provided on the rear wheels only, although later models may have included front-wheel braking to improve stopping performance. A four-speed manual gearbox gave the driver a practical range of gears, with a relatively high top gear for relaxed cruising.

The Crossley 19.6 Saloon was often chosen by professional and government users, including colonial administrators and military officers, who appreciated its ruggedness, comfort, and long-legged touring ability. It was particularly suited to the long distances and variable road conditions found in both the British countryside and overseas territories.

While never produced in large numbers, the 19.6 Saloon played an important role in Crossley’s range as a car that bridged the gap between utilitarian transport and understated luxury. It was well received for its mechanical soundness and the dignified impression it made on the road.

Today, examples of the Crossley 19.6 Saloon are rare and highly regarded by vintage car enthusiasts. Restored models showcase the craftsmanship and durability that defined the marque, and they offer a glimpse into a period when motoring was becoming more refined without losing its sense of adventure and purpose.