Highlights
- Later Mark III model in rare colour specification
- Comprehensive history file
- Wonderful potential as a summer project
- 1300 conversion
The Appeal
In the early 60s, it was one of Britain’s best selling cars, and for good reason. An extension of the unforgettable Mini, the BMC’s 1100 and 1300 range provided great levels of Mini-like fun in a surprisingly more spacious package. With performance from a solid A series engine and an impeccable dynamic handling setup, the Mini influence was really rather clear to see, but what made these so popular was their sheer practicality, the ADO16 series of cars showed buyers that they could have a fun sporty little car that wouldn't require a shoehorn to get the entire family into.
A later 1972 Austin Variant, NMM 147L is a charming example of the beloved model that currently sits as a car with incredible potential. Presenting in good overall mechanical order, it appears to have been subject to a 1300 conversion at some point in its lifetime and now with a wonderfully preserved interior it wants simply for some attention to the bodywork and light recommissioning to be made into a true stand out showpiece. For the committed British Leyland enthusiast this is certainly one to consider.
The History and Paperwork
- First registered 05/09/1972
- Sold into the London area by Austin Distributors Iron Bridge Garages
- The car appears to have undergone a 1300 conversion at some point in its life as it now bears 1300 badging and a higher capacity 1275cc A series engine
- The car currently presents with a solid, comprehensive history file
- Accompanied by original service book with regular stamped services up until the 30,000 mile mark in 1977
- Austin 1100-1300 owners book also present
- Selection of older MOT certificates can be found in the history file
- A large selection of invoices for servicing work and parts bought to maintain the car in more recent history
- Tax exempt due to the vehicles age and historic status
- Purchased by the current owner in 2014, who proceeded to use it for around a year before putting it into dry storage
- The car was taken out for an MOT in 2020 which it failed, and has not been used since
- Time constraints mean the vendor’s plan to recommission the car are not feasible and so the Austin is now looking for a new loving home
- V5 registration document is present
The Interior
- Well preserved, largely original cabin
- Simply outstanding, and incredibly rare green interior
- Incredibly spacious, a wonderful piece of engineering
- Green upholstery is of a remarkably high quality, presenting with very minimal signs of wear, rather a gentle patina to some areas of the seating
- Matching green door panels on all four doors, appointed with subtle, clean door furniture
- Black dash panel with wood finish insert, both in brilliant shape, distinctly lacking in sun fading, damage or cracking
- Fitted with two 12 volt power sockets for added convenience
- Plush grey carpeting used throughout
- Single spoke Leyland steering wheel has been installed
- Interior chrome trim and embellishments present well, with a wonderful shine to them
- All interior controls and switchgear are understood to be in good working order
- Well fitting contrasting white headliner, with just a few minor areas of staining to be seen
- Well sized, incredibly clean boot area with removable carpeted floor panel
The Exterior
- Charming classic styling
- Wonderful green exterior colour scheme to match the interior colouring
- Good quality chrome trim throughout, exuding a wonderful shine
- Bodywork would benefit from some attention with some areas of blemishing apparent around the rear passenger side wheel arch and sill panels
- Some bubbling is also presenting below the boot lid
- Four good quality steel wheels with chrome hubcaps found at ground level
- A fifth spare wheel resides in a bespoke compartment in the boot
- Glass work and lighting all appear to be of a great standard
- Austin front grille and external badging are in fine form
- Smart little Austin that with some general bodywork refurbishment could become a truly fine example of the beloved model
The Mechanics
- Fitted with a legendary A series BMC engine
- Whilst originally an 1100 we believe this car has been subject to a 1300 conversion, now fitted with the higher capacity 1275cc motor
- Engine presents in good honest form, showcasing what is a generally clean engine bay
- Whilst the car wasn’t able to be started on the day of the photoshoot we have been informed by the vendor that the car does indeed run and drive
- Having been sat up for some time now the car may potentially benefit from a general service and mechanical going over
- The car failed its MOT in 2020 for the following reasons
- Exhaust has an excessive leak
- Service brake binding
- Offside rear brakes imbalanced across an axle rear (Axle 2) Parking brake efficiency below requirements
- Since this test a replacement exhaust has been sourced and will accompany the car on sale
- Backed by a wealth of enthusiast and parts support
- Additional replacement exhaust included in sale, brand new but not currently fitted.
Summary
The ADO16 series of cars were incredibly significant for the BMC. The Austin 1100 and 1300 presented as capable, stylish, practical and above all else, fun mid sized cars in a previously unconquered market.
NMM 147L presents the avid British Leyland enthusiast with a great opportunity to acquire a genuinely rare car with great scope for improvement. In a rare colour scheme, with a higher capacity 1275cc engine, it longs for some attention and love to preserve it and bring it back to its former glory.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
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