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The Austin 1800 or ADO17 was launched in 1964 and won “car of the year” in 1965. It was unusual in appearance with a large, minimalist interior and very advanced “under the skin” with front wheel drive and hydrolastic suspension, like the Austin 1100. It was initially slow to sell, although 400, 000 Austin, Morris and Wolseley versions were produced in total. The Mk2 cars were launched in 1968 - by then the car was fully sorted and improved with minor changes to the body-shape, a higher final drive ratio, larger wheels and a 5hp increase in power. The 1800 is becoming a very rare sight, particularly MK1 and MK2 cars – the rigidity of the body which made them such a rugged competitor in the era of the long distance rally also made them popular on the banger racing circuit and many disappeared when values slumped in the 80’s and 90’s.
This car is an Austin 1800 in Limeflower with matching interior. It is one of the last MK2 models, registered May 1972, two months after the launch of the MK3. It presents very well and although two front wings were fitted several years ago, the rest of the body is original and has never been welded. The paint finish is very good with just the odd minor imperfection but no rust. The under-side, cavities and under bonnet were “Ziebarted” from new which has certainly contributed to its rock solid condition. We have just carried out some re-commissioning work, including a brake overhaul, oil change and flush and two new rear tyres. It is now running and driving very well. The interior is in superb original condition. There are comprehensive bills from the early part of its life but little from the last twenty years as it has spent much of this in storage. The mileage is 49k – we don’t guarantee mileages on cars of this age but it is almost certainly correct and it has had just three previous owners from new.
We are big fans of these practical saloons. They are surprisingly good to drive, inexpensive to maintain and quite rare. This one attracts huge attention on the road and is a real survivor with a level of originality that is becoming hard to find. Crucially the body has survived well and unlike many of the bodged examples is unlikely to deteriorate if it is kept well.
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Viewing near Woburn, Beds. Classic P/ X possible.
