Description
The Crossley Regis 12/6 JMC was a six-cylinder saloon car produced by Crossley Motors between 1935 and 1937. It was part of the final series of Regis models, which marked the company’s last efforts in passenger car manufacturing before focusing on commercial and military vehicles. The “12/6” designation indicated a 12 horsepower tax rating and a six-cylinder engine layout, while the “JMC” referred to the specific engine series used in this model.
This version of the Regis was powered by a 1,640 cc inline six-cylinder engine that produced around 48 brake horsepower. The engine was paired with a Wilson pre-selector gearbox, a relatively advanced transmission at the time that allowed for smoother and easier gear changes. The car was capable of reaching speeds up to approximately 68 miles per hour, which was respectable for its class and era.
The Regis 12/6 JMC featured a modern design for the mid-1930s, with a lower and longer body profile compared to earlier Crossley models. This was achieved through a double-drop chassis and the use of smaller 16-inch wheels. The styling, attributed to C.F. Beauvais of Avon Motor Bodies, included a distinctive slanted grille and options for two-tone paint finishes, giving the car a contemporary and elegant appearance.
Inside, the car offered a comfortable cabin with seating for four passengers. Standard equipment included Bendix mechanical brakes and the pre-selector gearbox, which together provided good driving control and safety for the time. The overall build combined traditional craftsmanship with innovative features, making it a well-rounded vehicle in its market segment.
Production of the Regis series was limited, with around 1,050 units built across all variants between 1934 and 1937. The 12/6 JMC was one of the later and rarer versions, and today surviving examples are quite scarce. This model represents a key moment in Crossley Motors’ history, highlighting their final contributions to British passenger car design before the company’s transition to other industries.