1956 AUSTIN A30

1956 Austin A30

Good things come in small packages. These words beautifully sum-up our latest arrival and it drives even better than it presents. Substantially restored in the past 3 years including a full engine rebuild. this super little A30 is “on the button” in all respects and ready for the show season this coming summer.

Designed by aeronautical engineer. T. K. Garrett. the A30 went into production in 1951 as a direct competitor to the Morris Minor albeit at some £62 cheaper! Featuring modern monocoque construction. it was an austere little car with just drivers` side sun visor and windscreen wiper in standard form. Passenger-side items were optional extras as was a heater. A choice of either 2 or 4-door saloons was available as was an estate version all equipped with the same 803cc “A” Series engine developing a massive 28bhp capable of 62mph flat-out. Over a 5-year production run. it proved a popular little car with over 220. 00 being built.

Our car is a very late-model A30 manufactured just before the slightly more powerful A35 entered production in mid-1956. Sadly we know little of our cars early life but interestingly. it was not UK registered until February 1982 suggesting that it was originally supplied to the export market returning to the UK at this point. Around 3 years ago. it was acquired by an enthusiast in Gateshead who undertook a fairly substantial rebuild including full engine overhaul. replacement gearbox and clutch. new leaf springs. new exhaust. all new king pins and trunnions. new track rod ends. rebuilt braking system. new door hinges and boot handle. In addition. the car was re-painted in its correct Black and internally. carpets and head-lining were replaced whilst original seats and door cards were refurbished.

As one would expect. the car today presents very nicely with excellent paint-work and chrome. Mechanically it is amazingly sweet with the little “A” Series firing up straightaway on first “pull” and just a little choke. On the road. the car is surprisingly nippy with very smooth gear-changes from the replacement `box and in no time 50mph is reached with ease. Lovely positive steering. firm brakes and neutral road-holding make for a very user-friendly classic. I was impressed.

Our car comes with a detailed file of recent work and receipts from marque specialists. a contemporary road test report from “The Motor” and an Autopress Workshop Manual. It is. of course. both MOT and tax exempt but a fresh 12-month MOT Certificate can be provided at point of sale if required.

A charming little family classic ready to be enjoyed.

Viewings are most welcome. Please call 01985 841104 or 07968 005037.

Cash please upon collection within 3 days of the Auction finishing.

Also published at eBay.co.uk

Want to buy this car?