This delightful and highly original unrestored example of Austin’s Burnham saloon has had just two owners since its first registration on 28th March 1931, the most recent of which acquired the car in 1963. And ever since, this lovely motor car has been in regular use and carefully maintained. Mechanically it is to original specification in all major respects and retains all the original upholstery and interior fittings (with the exception of the carpets). Whilst not concours, it is nevertheless in excellent condition throughout and must be amongst the finest and most honest of the remaining 12’s.

The car comes with a lovingly compiled history authored by the owner based on his memories and adventures with UB 5710 over the last 60 years. It provides a warm and fascinating insight to post-war British motoring and a genuinely insightful account of how this Austin was used as a daily driver and cared for as one of the family. The account is accompanied by photographs and documents including an original RF60A registration book, old tax discs and MOT certificates and a smattering of receipts for parts and spares. The original handbook – as supplied with the car when new – and other manuals from Lucas etc. are supplied as is a letter and booklet to the first owner from Zenith Carburettors dated April 1931.

To the present day: the car starts on the button and, once the feel of the gears and brakes are mastered, it drives as smoothly and unflustered as expected. Clearly a testament to the care and attention over previous years, this is definitely a vintage motor car that can be used and enjoyed on the open road. The aforementioned history pack even includes a hand written instruction list for starting the car and basic maintenance requirements.

Opportunities to acquire such a glorious, unrestored and fully road going Austin 12 Burnham are rare enough…one so steeped with such a vivid and sincere history must be unique!