1956 AUSTIN A30 SALOON Registration Number: 117 XVR Chassis...

Hammer

£2,300

1956 AUSTIN A30 SALOON

Registration Number: 117 XVR
Chassis Number: TBA
Recorded Mileage: 52,000

Whilst Morris Motors brought new standards of refinement to small cars with the Minor of 1948, arch enemies Austin needed their own small car to compete with this newcomer. In 1951 Austin unveiled its answer; the Austin A30, powered by an all new 803cc, four cylinder, OHV engine known as the A-series. Ironically the A30's new powerplant found its way into the Minor's engine bay as the two rival companies merged in 1952 to form BMC (British Motor Corporation). The A30 was a much smaller car than the Minor, its narrower body providing accommodation for 4 people and came only as a 4 door saloon to start with. In 1953 a 2 door saloon arrived and from 1954 a Van and estate car known as the Countryman became available. The little A30 sold well throughout its production life, despite its odd balance of modern styling and antiquated rod operated brakes. In 1956 the more powerful A35 arrived.

This late A30 was first supplied to the Trowbridge area in March of 1956, finished in Cardigan Grey with a red interior. The little Austin was used by a local resident until they gave up driving in the 1970s. The car was well known to the current vendor’s grandparents, the proprietors of Mortimer Street Garage in Trowbridge, where it was regularly serviced. When the A30 came in seeking a new home, the garage owners acquired it, remaining in their possession and occasionally being used for local car shows until the car passed to their grandson in 1997.

The car has been dry stored since this time, but has benefitted from much work by the current owner’s father. A number of items have been fitted such as a new exhaust system, brake master cylinder and rear cylinder, new radiator hoses, new windscreen & rear screen seals, new voltage regulator, gearbox front and rear oil seals, all oils and filter (including gearbox), amongst other things.

Showing just 52,000 miles from new, this is a really fun starter classic which can be further improved as and when one wishes.