Registration - SV 6668

Chassis No. - 1865L6

M.O.T. - Exempt

Odometer - TBC

A delightful and well-regarded example of Austin’s vintage saloon, this 16 Light Six is presented in black-over-maroon two-tone paintwork, with brass fixings, metal-plated running boards, and black wheels. Although little is known about ‘SV 6668’, what is likely to be a Burnham saloon is powered by Austin’s 2 ¼-litre straight six engine, offering 36hp when new, and manual gearbox. Inside, there is seating for five to sit (cosily) on the red leather-trimmed seats, with the carpets and door cards matching the colour scheme; dashboard and door surrounds are trimmed in wood.

Although evidently the subject of a comprehensive restoration at some time in its past, the 16 Light Six retains many period features, including the steering wheel-mounted ignition and choke controls, fuel filler cap found just inside the cabin, ‘artillery’ wheels, and rear-mounted luggage rack, ‘SV 6668’ is reckoned to be in very good order throughout, and the indicated mileage of 96,279 miles is unsupported by documentation, but considered to be correct.

• Exceptionally fine example of Austin’s mid-range model from the period
• Cherished, and likely restored to a high standard
• Creditable indicated mileage of 96,279 is superb for a near 100-year old car

Austin’s 16 was introduced in 1927, sitting between the 12 and below the 20 in an entirely logical naming system. The mid-sized model featured a new version of Auston’s 2,249cc straight six engine, with a four-speed manual gearbox. Developments continued throughout its decade on sale, with synchromesh on the top two gears arriving in 1934, a larger 2,511cc engine offered between 1934-36, and a long-wheelbase model available as an option; it even offered an early automatic transmission, the Hayes Self-Selector. Available in open-topped or saloon bodies, with a variety of seating and door numbers, production halted in 1937, although the name was revived on a post-war model.