Description
1968 AUSTIN A60 HALF TON VAN
Registration Number: GEZ 1007
Chassis Number: AHV6235047A
Recorded Mileage: 68, 000 miles
Sold in the A40, A50, A55, and finally A60 guises, the Austin Cambridge ran from late 1954 until 1969, and until 1971 in commercial form. Replacing the earlier A40 Somerset, the Cambridge was an entirely new concept, based on (at the time) cutting edge unibody construction methods.
Initially the Austin Cambridge was only offered with a four-door saloon body - a two-door was mooted at one point and reached pre-production stage, but ultimately never made it into production. Independent suspension was provided at the front by coil springs and wishbones. A live axle with anti-roll bar was retained at the rear, with drive to the wheels by means of a four-speed gear box controlled with a column-mounted lever.
The Half-Ton Van was offered from 1956 until 1971, initially with a 50bhp 1. 5-litre B-Series engine, later upgraded to the 61bhp 1. 6-litre unit first used in the sporty MGA Roadster. With a four-speed floor change gearbox, this was a spritely van for its day, with a top speed of over 70mph and respectable 30mpg economy.
This later 1968 A60 Half Ton appears to have had only light use in its 54 years, with little in the way of obvious dents or damage to the loading area or inner wheel arches. The Maroon over Cream bodywork is well preserved, with just a little paint fade to be seen on the bonnet and front wings. The driver’s compartment in particular is smart; the seats, door panels and carpets all present well. The van drives well, aided by recently overhauled brakes and a new clutch.
With we understand just 4 owners from new, and showing in the region of 68, 000 miles recorded, this is a charming classic which is equally at home in regular daily service or could be saved for shows or summer classic commercial runs.
This classic will be sold at auction with Dore & Rees at the Auction Salerooms on Vicarage Street in Frome, Somerset, on Saturday 18th June. For more details contact the Motoring Department via the above details.
