Description
The Austin 12/6 Newbury Sports Tourer was a refined and elegant open-top model produced in the early 1930s. It was designed to offer a more spirited driving experience while maintaining the reliability and practicality that Austin cars were known for. With its combination of sleek styling and smooth performance, it appealed to motorists who sought both comfort and sportiness in an open touring car.
Powered by a 1496cc six-cylinder side-valve engine, the Newbury Sports Tourer delivered around 30 horsepower. The six-cylinder configuration provided a smoother and quieter ride compared to the four-cylinder models, making it well-suited for long-distance touring. The engine was paired with a four-speed manual gearbox, allowing for better control and improved efficiency on the road.
The bodywork featured classic pre-war tourer styling, with flowing front and rear wings, a folding soft-top roof, and a well-proportioned design that emphasized both elegance and practicality. The open cabin layout provided seating for up to four passengers, with a comfortable and well-finished interior. The dashboard was equipped with simple yet functional instrumentation, ensuring ease of use for the driver.
The Newbury Sports Tourer stood out as a more exclusive and stylish offering within the Austin 12/6 range. Its combination of sporty aesthetics, solid engineering, and enjoyable driving dynamics made it a popular choice for those who wanted an open-top motoring experience without compromising on reliability.
Today, the Austin 12/6 Newbury Sports Tourer remains a highly desirable classic, admired for its graceful design and smooth performance. Well-preserved examples are often showcased at vintage car rallies and classic motoring events, where they continue to capture the essence of 1930s open-air touring.