CHASING CARS
ASKING £10,995 PRICE
ENGINE 1489cc/4-cyl/OHV POWER 52bhp@4350rpm TORQUE 65lb ft@3250rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 80mph 0-60MPH 19sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 35-40mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed manual MoT 12 months on sale ODOMETER 58,115 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
The engine turns over quickly on full choke and idles very quietly and smoothly on minimal choke almost immediately. Once underway it pulls cleanly from very low revs and the progressive clutch maintains the refined feel. The light gear change responds best to a slow hand but it’s accurate and the synchromesh is fine – although downshifts benefit from a little rev-matching. There's not much in the way of gear whine, the suspension doesn’t creak or rattle and the dampers feel as if they’re in good order. The brakes are outstandingly – if inexplicably – modern in feel and the light steering self-centres avidly with no noise or lumpiness from lock to lock.
BODYWORK CHECK
The original two-tone colour scheme has been replicated in a recent full re-paint, while the sills, wheel arches and wings are all in great rust-free shape. The panel fit and door shuts are tight and true, likewise the bonnet and boot alignment. Most of the chrome has obviously been recently re-plated with only a little stone-chipping of the front bumper to indicate the time period involved. The wheels are in the correct white with re-chromed hub cabs bearing the Austin ‘A’ symbol.
EXTERIOR Good panel fit and eye-catching quality paint
INTERIOR Tastefully re-trimmed, needs a period radio
MECHANICALS Sublime engine Nice 'box
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
This car was most likely garaged for most of its life. There is very little sign of UV damage to the fascia top and the panel itself has its original clocks and switches, however the latter would benefit from re-labelling. The original large-diameter steering wheel is in fine condition but the modern JVC CD/radio jars terribly; it really needs a more period-looking radio. The split-bench style s
