‘The aim behind the Small Invicta, as it is to be called, is to produce a comparatively big car with a high-efficiency six-cylinder engine that is small reckoned by cubic capacity, economical in running costs and as to annual taxation, which yet affords unusual comfort and accommodation for five people at need, as well as a high performance.’ - The Autocar, 31st July 1931.

In its all-too-short lifetime Invicta carved out an enviable reputation for building fine sporting motor cars, the bigger Meadows-engined models in particular offering class-leading performance and impeccable build quality.

For customers less concerned with ultimate performance, the company offered the 12/45.

Introduced in 1932 and built to the firm’s customary high standards, the 12hp ‘Small Invicta’ was an intriguing exercise in circumventing the ludicrous tax on engine capacity that dictated British design policy between the wars.

Strongly built and well finished in typical Invicta fashion, the 12/45 used a 1....