Acquiring a controlling interest in Humber in 1928, the Rootes brothers took over the company completely in 1932.

Humber's first new model of the Rootes era was the '12'.

Introduced in 1933, it was powered by a 1,669cc four-cylinder side-valve engine that (in enlarged OHV form) would still be in production over 30 years later.

Coupled to a four-speed gearbox, this versatile power unit was mounted in a conventional X-braced chassis featuring semi-elliptic springing at both ends and Bendix cable brakes.

Pressed Steel provided the standard six-light Saloon body, while the range also included the pillarless two-door Vogue Saloon, a Tourer and a Drophead Coupé.

In 1935 the '12' was considerably updated and restyled, gaining a new frame, an all-synchromesh gearbox and a more streamlined body with integral boot and distinctive V-shaped radiator grille.

Production of the model ceased in 1937.

Little is known of the history of this rare Humber 12, except that it was acquired by the late ...