Austin A40 Farina MkII

History

Launched by BMC in 1958 to replace the Austin A35, the A40 Farina was a strikingly modern car with clean, functional lines penned by Pininfarina of Italy. It was initially powered by the A-Series 948cc 34bhp engine but this was replaced by a 1098cc 48bhp unit for the MkII version in 1961. The MkII also had a longer wheelbase, new front grill and dashboard and fully hydraulic brakes. Robust, stylish and practical, with a top speed approaching 90mph, it was a great export success for BMC, even in the USA where it was quaintly marketed as 'The Gayest Economy Sedan Ever'.

First registered in April 1963, this particular car is a fantastically original example that has never been restored apart from a partial respray about ten years ago to cover a scratch down one side. It has covered a genuine 30,380 miles from new which is backed up by an unbroken run of MOTs back to 1969 when it had 13,321 on the clock. The interior is particularly well preserved and the car is said to drive beautifully.

It comes with its original bill of sale from Welling Motor Mart when it was sold to William Halls of Barnehurst, Kent, for £634.39 including £10.15 for underseal! With just three owners since, it comes with its original Passport to Service book and owner's handbook, and is due to have a fresh MOT before the sale. A smarter, more unmolested example it would surely be hard to find.