Austin 12

[5] The number twelve refers to its fiscal horse power (12.8) rather than its brake horsepower (bhp) which was 20 and later 27.

The factory catalogued body range was steadily updated with the last of the no longer fashionable Weymann style fabric-covered cars in 1931 and no open tourers after 1934.

"The gears were easily changed, the brakes worked well, yet were smooth in application, and the steering is steady and light.

A pedal operates shoes in enclosed drums at the rear and a centrally set hand lever applies a locomotive type of transmission brake which is anchored to the gear box.

Gaiters allowing leaf lubrication by oil are fitted, and such parts as shackle pins are greased by gun.

[1] The Twelve-Four is familiar to children in the form of Gumdrop, the title character of a series of books authored by Val Biro, who owned an example.

[6] The stories revolve around the car and his owner, initially the younger Bill McArran, but for most of the series, the more senior Mr Oldcastle (later joined by a dog, Horace).

Mr Biro and Gumdrop were frequent visitors to car shows and other events in Sussex and surrounding area (2008) In 2022 the Heavy 12/4 celebrates 100 years, with the Vintage Austin Register hosting a commemorative event in Leicestershire featuring a gathering of one hundred cars.

The real-life Gumdrop as driven by the author on 27 July 2008