HIGHLIGHTS

Beautifully restored
Immaculate interior
Matching numbers
Genuine low mileage
Starts and drives really well

THE APPEAL

The popular and endearing baby Austin was just the ticket for the post-war economy car-buying public. Following on from the A30, some 353,849 A35’s were produced offering the stronger 948cc ‘A’ Series engine, a slicker four-speed gearbox and higher final drive for relaxed higher speed cruising. A larger rear window and painted front grille also featured.

Despite the huge numbers produced, finding a good one these days is tricky - rust being the main reason for the demise of so many of these great little cars. So, how wonderful it is to discover this little gem in such terrific condition.

The previous owner(s) enjoyed displaying this Longbridge classic at local car shows and treated it to a bare metal respray, interior renovation and mechanical overhaul in 1999. It has also been refreshed in 2021. The current owner describes his A35 as ‘Immaculate’.

THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK

Only 6 former keepers
Some specialist service history
Last MOT in 2020

First registered on the 26th July 1957, VSJ 820 was initially owned by a lady living in the Bournemouth area where it remained with 2 subsequent owners over the next 40 years.

The current owner recently purchased this lovely Austin on the 20th April 2022 from classic car specialists Morse Classics, Northampton, but unfortunately is no longer able to drive, due to ill health.

A substantial folder contains an original Austin A35 Driver’s Handbook, previous MOT’s, parts and servicing receipts, owners club magazines and parts catalogues. Interestingly, there are also some car show display notes prepared by the previous owner(s).

Looking online, this Austin has passed all of it’s MOT’s from 2006-2012 and when it was last presented in 2020 at 93,455 miles. The recorded mileage was in fact just 90,192 in 2006. The exempt tax has been renewed and is valid until the 1st April 2023.

THE INTERIOR

Great condition throughout
Original instrumentation
Fantastic leather upholstery

Open the drivers door and you are greeted with a highly original looking interior in exceptional condition.

The original steering wheel is in place and flanked by the choke and starter pull. The central instrumentation cluster includes the Smiths speedo, main beam light, oil light, fuel gauge and ignition light. The fantastic period Lucas indicator switch is mounted on the dash top and the standard heater controls, etc. reside below. The original gear lever is also in-situ.

The quality continues with the red door trims, leather upholstery and carpets and there are no obvious signs of damage. The original roof lining is also in excellent condition.

At the ‘cute’ rear, the Boot lid is in great order and reveals a nicely carpeted luggage space, spare wheel and wheel brace. Upon initial inspection, the boot floor appears well painted and corrosion-free.

THE EXTERIOR

Restored in 1999 and 2021
Presentable chrome
Dry stored

The befitting glossy black coachwork is in great condition. There are one or two very minor touched-in blemishes, but nothing to distract the inevitable attention this lovely little classic receives. We understand it was restored in 1999 and the owner believes it was resprayed again in 2021 by Morse Classics, although we don’t have any details.

Externally, the rust-prone areas seem fine and the body is very straight. The door bottoms, seams, sills and wheel arches look great, and whilst not perfect, the chrome work is very acceptable. There are some scratches to the passenger door window, but otherwise all the glass, Lights, mirrors and rubber trim look spot on.

Underneath, the flooring and structure is clean, well painted and undersealed with just the expected minimal surface rust here and there. The rear spring hanger attachment areas appear sound, and although a little rusty, the exhaust system is fine.

The wheels have been repainted in Old English White and are in nice condition. Radial Firestone F-590 tyres are up front and Event Futurum GP tyres at the rear. They all have plenty of tread remaining.

THE MECHANICS

Reliable A-Series engine
Servo assisted drum brakes
Service history

Under the bonnet, the dependable (and tuneable) 948cc A-Series engine sits in a clean and tidy bay. The 34bhp unit, as we know, is easy to maintain for the experienced home mechanic and with readily available parts and support out there, should be a breeze to keep in fine fettle.

In 1999, a previous owner records that the engine had a ‘complete overhaul’ including the carburettor. We cannot verify what the ‘overhaul’ entailed, but clearly this was carried out not that many miles ago. Reassuringly, a brake servo has been fitted, and the current owner had a new clutch installed in May 2022.

With a little choke and a pull of the starter, this little A-Series eagerly springs into life. The owner confirms that it is a “quiet runner” and drives along really well.

Some specialist servicing history comes with the car and we understand it was serviced by Morse Classics prior to the current owner collecting it. Previous owners list some of the technical specifications and Morse Classics have provided some advice on the correct fuel to use, etc. (see photos).

SUMMARY

This adorable 1957 Austin exudes classic British charm. Cosmetically and mechanically speaking it is on the button and ready to be enjoyed.

The perfect companion for Sunday runs and classic car shows, this eye-catching A35 deserves to be loved and cherished and will surely put a smile on your face.

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