Opis
The Austin 1800, affectionately known as the "Landcrab", was one of the most innovative family saloons of its era. Developed by the British Motor Corporation and styled by Pininfarina, it combined advanced front-wheel-drive engineering, exceptional interior space and outstanding ride comfort. Awarded European Car of the Year in 1965, the Austin 1800 represented a significant step forward in British automotive design and remains one of the most distinctive and capable saloons of the 1960s.
This is a particularly charming and exceptionally well-documented example, a 1966 Austin 1800 Mk I De Luxe known affectionately throughout its life as "Winnie". First supplied by Goddard & Co. Ltd. of Salisbury to Richard Sykes on 1st December 1966, Winnie enjoys a fascinating and largely traceable ownership history spanning six decades.
The car passed to Blanche Cobb of Wimborne in 1968 before ownership transferred to Peggy Cobb at the same address in November 1975. In 1993, John Benns Motor Company of Wimborne sold the Austin to enthusiast Jim Bloomfield of Alton, beginning what would become one of the most significant chapters in the car's life.
In 1997, Winnie benefited from an extensive restoration programme. The engine was removed and entrusted to specialist engineers for a complete rebuild, while numerous mechanical components were renewed as required. Both front wings were removed to allow body repairs to be carried out, additional areas of bodywork were restored, the glass was removed, and the car received a comprehensive repaint to a high standard. The rear seat was also professionally retrimmed, resulting in the attractive presentation seen today.
Following restoration, Jim Bloomfield actively campaigned Winnie on the classic car show circuit, attending events from Yorkshire to Cornwall. Such was the quality of the car that it amassed an impressive collection of trophies, rosettes and award plaques, all of which accompany the vehicle and provide a tangible record of its success and popularity within the classic car community.
The history file accompanying this Austin is nothing short of remarkable. Included are the original buff log book, the original Austin 1800 Driver's Handbook, a period Austin 1800 sales brochure, a copy of the P. Olyslager Motor Manual from the Sunday Times motoring series covering the Austin 1800, a Motor Trader Supplement from 1996 relating to the BMC 1800 range, and a 1994 feature article celebrating the Austin 1800. Also present is a handwritten mileage record charting the car's progress from 1984 through to 2013, supported by a substantial collection of MOT certificates.
Further documentation includes V5 registration history, previous sales invoices, service records, restoration photo album, restoration invoices and numerous receipts evidencing the care, maintenance and expenditure lavished upon the car over many years. Winnie also benefits from a British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate, further validating its provenance and history.
It is immediately apparent that this Austin 1800 has been cherished by each of its owners. The sheer volume of documentation, together with the awards accumulated throughout its show career, create a compelling picture of a classic car that has never simply been owned, but genuinely cared for and enjoyed.
Today, Winnie presents as a wonderfully authentic and highly usable example of BMC's innovative family saloon. With its attractive grey exterior, striking red interior, extensive history portfolio and proven show pedigree, it offers a rare opportunity to acquire one of the best documented Austin 1800s available. Equally suited to continued participation on the show circuit, classic touring events or simply being enjoyed as part of a discerning collection, Winnie is now ready for its next custodian to continue its remarkable story.
Viewing is strictly by appointment only.
