Description
This 1934 Standard Big Twelve saloon was manufactured in 1934. Supplied new by Downing & Donovan on the Isle of Wight to its first owner, it was registered DL 9135 on 6th July. Now an extremely rare model, the Big Twelve Mk1 had a 1, 497cc six-cylinder side-valve engine and a four-speed gearbox. DL 9135 had a four-seat, four-door body by Fisher & Ludlow Ltd of Birmingham finished in a special-order colour scheme (according to the Standard Motor Club) of vibrant red with black wings.
After standing for some 34 years, the car underwent a comprehensive restoration from 2014-16. The body was stripped and the coachwork was restored including new floors and running boards, before being returned to the original colour scheme discovered beneath later paintwork. The engine and gearbox were removed for refurbishment. The brakes were overhauled with the shoes re-lined; the rear axle refreshed with new seals, and the engine received new plugs, leads, and starting equipment. The car was also re-wired, including uprating the original headlamps, and new headlining and carpets were fitted.
The previous two owners appear to have been active members of the Standard Motor Club, and the car has taken part in various rallies, runs and events. It has also featured on the cover of the Standard Car Review. Within the last few years, DL 9135 has received a full interior re-trim in leather and a new carburettor. More recently, it has been fitted with a new stainless-steel fuel tank, and the fuel lines and electrical system have been overhauled with a new battery to ensure reliable and trouble-free running. The six-cylinder engine is extremely smooth and is almost silent on tick-over.
The Standard comes with a wealth of history, documentation, original handbooks and other books. The car also has a rear luggage storage box (not currently fitted), a framed photographic record of its restoration and its original fuel tank. A charming and scarce pre-war saloon with lots of provenance. Offers considered.
Registration number: DL 9135
Chassis number: 197142SP
Engine number: MO1015
