Highlights
- Spent some time in the USA, previously based in LA
- Full restoration completed before arrival in the UK
- Upgraded with a BMC 1,622cc B-Series engine and A70 differential
- Upgraded brakes
- Part of a private collection in Northern Ireland
The Appeal
The A40 'Counties' cars were Austin's bread and butter for quite some time, and it's easy to see why. Intended as a bit of a potterer's car, these cars offered modest performance but distinctive looks, with their bulbous bodies and sweeping lines soon becoming a common sight in the green and pleasant lands of the Counties they were named after.
The Somerset was one of the final cars of its type, offered in two variations—the convertible and the saloon. It remains a very charming classic—one that perfectly captures that mid-century period when car building was rapidly developing from flat-fronted jalopies into curvy, characterful cars that felt design-led.
This fine example of the '53 Convertible is utterly charming - and spent some time in the sunny, far off lands of Los Angeles for quite some time, where it must have turned quite a few heads compared to when it was built in Longbridge.
Arriving in the UK in 1989 - following a restoration - this is still a fine, solid example of a much loved mid-century classic, presented in good order and upgraded with a larger BMC B-Series power unit.
History and Paperwork
- Built in 1953
- Previously based in the USA
- Spent some time in Los Angeles until it arrived in the UK in 1989
- Imported back to the UK in 1989 after restoration in Los Angeles
- Part of a private collection in Northern Ireland for several years
- Indicates 08,517 miles on a five-figure odometer
- MOT exempt, last tested in 2012
The Condition
- Body is in good condition
- Pleasantly presented paintwork with minimal signs of wear
- No meaningful signs of corrosion we can spot
- Chrome is very good, with a slightly dull front bumper
- Badges and branding all present and correct
- Glasswork and lenses in good order
- Colour-contrasting wheels in good order
- Light wear to the underside, though nothing of concern
- Hood and side windows are in very good order
- Internally, the car's cabin is nicely presented
- Some rubbing and grazing to the front seats
- Elsewhere, the upholstery is in fine order
- Some fogging and wear to the instruments and equipment
- Dashboard itself is in good, clean order
The Mechanics
- Upgraded with a 1,622 B-Series 4-cylinder powerplant
- Differential taken from an A70
- 4-speed manual transmission, with synchromesh on 2nd, 3rd and top
- Upgraded brakes
- Fitted with an electric petrol pump and master switch
- Recently received a full service
- We understand the car to be in good running order
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
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