Registration - BLE 215

Chassis No. - H15596

M.O.T. - Exempt

Odometer - 15,257

This splendid tourer is finished in green over black and trimmed throughout in green leather. It comes complete with black hood and a full complement of side screens that can be stored in the door linings when not required, making it a genuine all-weather vehicle. The paintwork is enhanced by plenty of quality brightwork in the form of chromed radiator, head and sidelights, bumpers etc, while the car rides on black-painted wire wheels. This very original example retains its period semaphore arms, but in deference to modern motoring also very sensibly features a set modern flashing indicators. The sale is a very reluctant one for the vendor who has owned ‘BLE 215’ for no less than 22 years. Twelve months following his acquisition, the Austin was treated to a full nut and bolt restoration that included the installation of the current upholstery and hood, since when the car has twice toured France and been employed for numerous rallies over the years. The vendor says it also makes ‘an excellent wedding car’, as the hood can be folded right back and tucked away below a purpose-built cover. Aside of a few very minor niggles he currently rates the bodywork, paintwork, interior trim, four-cylinder engine and four-speed manual gearbox as ‘excellent’. ‘BLE 215’ would surely make a splendid addition to any post-vintage collection or wedding fleet.

Intriguingly, the Austin 12 made its debut in November 1921 - ie six months after the company had entered receivership. However, both Austin and the model survived, with the latter staying in service no less than 19 years, during which time an impressive 88,000 examples were produced.

In summary:

• The subject of a nut and bolt restoration in 2000
• Very well-presented inside and out and always garaged
• Complete with full set of weather gear

Location of Vehicle - Bishopstoke, Eastleigh