Descripción
HERE, fresh in today, is my delightful 1963 Austin A40 Countryman Mark II.
This clever idea which sprang from the drawing boards of BMC resulted in the A40 Countryman becoming the UK's first ever mass produced hatchback - even though the terminology itself had not yet been put in place. Countryman was the word the designers used and "estate" was the word used on their registration documents. Out of the 350, 000 or so Austin A40s built, a mere 20 per cent were Countrymans. Was this because, at the time, BMC could not be sure if their quirky design would be a winner? Who knows. Thus, 80 per cent of A40s were saloon versions with an opening boot and a fixed rear window.
As you would imagine, the Countryman is a mega-rare sight today and the model has become highly sought after.
Up goes the rear window and down goes the tailgate with the obvious result of offering wide open space for loading. Naturally enough, the rear seat folds flat also in traditional estate car fashion.
This 1963 model is a little gem. Being a Mark II, she carries several differences from the Mark I. The engine is now up-rated to the 1098cc unit, the dash alters totally and adopts the Morris 1100 instrument pod of the day. There are other differences too such as wind-up windows and a newly styled radiator grille.
Finished in white with a cherry red roof and a red interior, she is a real eyecatcher of a classic. Very sound and highly usable, she is a delight to drive and handles very well indeed. The wheels may not be everyone's cup of tea but they are what they are - and that is (I think) MGB rostyles with some modern day plastic covers fitted. Doubtless, it would be simple enough to alter the look back to original with some correct spec wheels and hub caps. Maybe they are identical to Morris Minor wheels? Anyway, for all I know, her new owner might even like the present look!
The classic cars I sell are motoring antiques. There may be a few dozen left of any one model, maybe more and maybe less. Most of them had lives that lasted anywhere between three and seven years (on average). Today's classics are all rare. They have survived. Please do not come and look at one of my cars from the 30s, 40s or 50s and point out some blemishes. Do the maths and work out their ages. If these ancient motor cars are not your cup of tea then please don't make an appointment and come and insult them. Buy a three-year-old BMW if that is your thing. Some are restored to a huge degree; some have never been touched and remain original with warts and all. No two will ever be the same. They are not in a showroom "bulled up" for your perusal. I pride myself on being able to find different and interesting - to me at any rate - classic cars and then finding new homes for them. Understand that and we shall all get on very well indeed. I can also assist with delivery and so please ask for a quote. Many thanks. Martin. the details below).
