Description

The Crossley Regis 12/6 JM was a mid-1930s six-cylinder saloon car, part of Crossley Motors’ final push in the passenger vehicle market. Manufactured between 1934 and 1937, it formed part of the Regis range which included both four- and six-cylinder models. The 12/6 designation indicated a 12 horsepower rating under the British tax system and a six-cylinder engine layout. The “JM” suffix referred to a specific series of engine numbers used in early production, distinguishing it from later variants.

Under the bonnet, the Regis 12/6 JM featured a 1,476 cc inline six-cylinder engine that produced approximately 42 brake horsepower. This engine was coupled to a Wilson pre-selector gearbox, a relatively advanced piece of technology at the time. The pre-selector allowed the driver to choose the next gear before actually changing it, which made shifting smoother and more efficient. The vehicle had a top speed of around 68 mph, providing a comfortable cruising experience for its class.

The design of the Regis range was a departure from earlier, more upright Crossley cars. A lower and more modern silhouette was achieved through the use of a double-drop chassis and 16-inch wheels instead of the taller 18-inch ones. The bodywork received styling input from C.F. Beauvais of Avon Motor Bodies, who gave the car a slanted grille and options for two-tone paint, enhancing its contemporary appearance.

Inside, the Regis 12/6 JM was fitted with a well-appointed interior. It provided seating for four or five passengers and came equipped with Bendix mechanical brakes and quality trim. The emphasis was on providing a balance between traditional craftsmanship and emerging motoring conveniences.

Later in production, the JM engine series was succeeded by the larger JMC unit, which had a displacement of 1,640 cc. These improvements reflected Crossley’s efforts to remain competitive in a crowded market. Overall production numbers for the Regis range were modest, with about 1,050 units built across all versions. The 12/6 JM was among the early and rarer variants, and few survive today.

As one of the last passenger vehicles produced by Crossley Motors before it turned to military and commercial production, the Regis 12/6 JM holds historical significance. It marked a turning point in British automotive design, blending innovation with elegance during a transformative era in motoring.