The A40 Devon was produced by Austin from 1947 to 1952. They were the first post-war saloons to be produced by the company. The Devon we have here is the 4-door version and was more successful than the 2-door Dorset around at the same time.
The model featured a mix of old and new technologies. There was the traditional body-on-frame design which incorporated a modern shell and a 1.2litre straight-4 OHV engine producing 40 bhp taking the car to 70mph.
The car has front coil sprung independent suspension and retained a rigid axle and semi-elliptic leaf springs at the rear from previous models. Later cars such as this one, made in the last year of production had column operated gear change and full hydraulic braking system. The heater was an optional extra and thankfully the original owners opted for this to be included.
The A40 Devons sold well, boosting Austin's standing in the sales charts in the process. Its success was attributed to the fact that it offered a lot of car for the money, and we think it still does.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
Current vendor purchased the vehicle from Dunfermline in Scotland
V5 present stating 7 owners in its 70 year history
There has been an older comprehensive restoration to an extremely high standard
There is no history paperwork with the car
The car was manufactured in 1952 as stated on the front of the V5. Looking closer onto the document we see it was re-registered in 1984. As there is no history for this time the vendor feels the car could have been imported from New Zealand which might explain why the car is so free of corrosion. These cars were sent over in crates to be reassembled and as no salt was used on the roads, they faired a lot better than cars in the UK
THE INTERIOR
New replacement carpets fit well and are of a high quality
The boot area is very clean and dry. The spare wheel is in place along with the original jack and handle
The boot lid is secure, and the hinges are as new
The leather seats are original and do show a bit of wear although there are no rips. The next owner could improve these with leather restorer to bring out the full beauty
Headliner in good shape and nice and tight
Windows operate smoothly
Quarterlight windows operate well
We are advised all the dials and switches work as they should
THE EXTERIOR
Trafficators (semaphore lights) located at the door pillars pop out and illuminate as they should
Updated indicators have been added for safety
The high quality historic respray in the original green paint colour has been achieved by fully stripping the car down to obtain the best results
There has been a very detailed application of underseal to all areas underneath
No signs of welding or corrosion on the chassis or body
The steel body panels appear to be free of any filler work and have straight and true edges
All brightwork in excellent shape, and apart from the front grill look like they have been re-chromed at some point
THE MECHANICALS
A full rewire has been done in the recent past with all the wires arranged neatly and securely as it would have been leaving the factory
New rubbers and hoses fitted
A lot of new bushes and seals have been added and all joints greased up
The wheels are clean with crossply tyres showing little signs of wear
Smooth four speed column gearchange
RWD (rear-wheel drive)
The car starts immediately and the tick over is regular and balanced
1.2 litre straight-4 OHV engine runs very smoothly when revving
Gaskets and seals appear in good condition.
It is apparent there has been a lot of work tidying and refurbishing the engine components
SUMMARY
Back in the day the Austin A40 Devon was a very comfortable and practical four-seater car. This fine example runs really well and still feels welcoming inside for a car of its day.
It has had a lot of care and attention lavished on it in the past resulting in a 70-year-old car that is as strong as it was when it was new.
This little Austin has plenty of love to give the new owner and is ready to be enjoyed for summer driving with enough room for friends and family to come along for the ride.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
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