Star 12/40 Classic Cars for Sale

History of the Star 12/40

Star Motor Company, based in Wolverhampton, was renowned in the early 1900s for their robust engineering and refined mechanical layouts. The 12/40 was introduced during an era when reliability and functional elegance were crucial selling points in the British middle-class market. As production and design philosophy shifted in the interwar years, the 12/40 carved out a reputation for being both dependable and mechanically straightforward, making it popular amongst professional and private motorists seeking reliability without ostentation.

Model History

The Star 12/40 succeeded earlier, less powerful Star models. It embodied the company’s move towards slightly higher displacement engines and gradual improvements in drivability and comfort. While not directly succeeded by a single model, its lifespan marked the final era of Star’s commitment to traditional engineering before the company’s eventual decline and cessation of car production in the 1930s.

Highlights of the Star 12/40

A major highlight of the 12/40 is its period-correct overhead valve engine, delivering competitive power for its time. Mechanical brakes and a choice of body styles enhanced usability. Featuring coachbuilt bodies and classic British craftsmanship, each 12/40 can differ markedly, adding to their appeal among dedicated collectors.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Due to limited surviving documentation and the bespoke nature of many 12/40s, specific special editions are not well-documented. Some coachbuilt examples with rare configurations or period accessories do exist, and these can be particularly valued by historians or collectors with an eye for provenance.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The overhead valve engine provided a solid blend of torque and peripheral speed that impressed in its class during the late 1920s. A conventional manual gearbox complemented the straightforward drivetrain. Leaf springs provided period-typical ride quality—firm yet resilient on country roads. The mechanical brakes, while requiring careful setup and regular adjustment, were reliable for the era—though less forgiving compared to modern standards. Examples retaining original coachwork and mechanical parts are particularly valued, while those with known provenance offer insights into the usage patterns of affluent British drivers during the early automotive age.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Star 12/40’s design reflected the utilitarian yet stylish preferences of 1920s Britain. Interiors typically featured leather seating and wooden dashboards, with occasional bespoke touches by external coachbuilders. Exteriors could range from understated to ornate—open tourers, saloons, and special-bodied cars were all possible. Accessories and equipment varied widely, with optional period lighting, additional instrument panels, and custom luggage racks frequently seen on period-correct survivors.

Other Features

Some surviving models have been retrofitted with discreet modern features for better usability, such as hidden electrical upgrades or reinforced structural elements. Documentation regarding these updates significantly enhances a specific 12/40’s desirability for usability-focused collectors.

Summary

The Star 12/40 remains a testament to early British carmaking, notable for its technical configuration and the variance between individual examples. Its rarity on the market today is matched by its appeal to enthusiasts seeking originality and insight into the evolution of British motoring during the 1920s.