Austin 1100 Automatic

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After his outstanding success with the Mini, Alec Issigonis set out to design a larger and comparatively more sophisticated car, again based around the Austin A-Series engine. 

The motor would again be mounted transversely (driving the front wheels) and the car would feature disc brakes at the front. It was the first car to feature the space-efficient ‘hydrolastic’ suspension invented by Alex Moulton. The engine was enlarged for the new mid-sized model. Capacity went up to 1098cc by dint of a longer stroke. This, combined with a new cylinder head design took power from 37bhp at 4750rpm to a heady 48bhp at 5100rpm.

The 1100 model came to market in 1962 in both Austin and Morris guises. At first it was only available as a four-door saloon, though two- and three-door versions were soon added. Built at both Longbridge and Cowley, production reached more that 7,000 a week at its height. More than two million were made in total, though the owners’ club estimates only 3,000 remain worldwide today.

This 1967 example has clearly led a very cosseted life in the hands of only three owners, the clock still showing just 19,395 miles in its 47-year life to date. Acquired by the Stondon Motor Museum 17 years ago, it has been on display in the collection ever since but has been started and driven regularly.

Finished in dark green with a tan leather interior, the car retains its original purchase receipt for £831.7.9d from Elsden and Co (Austin Dealers) of Cromer Norfolk. There is also the original handbook along with some Motor Fuel Ration vouchers issued for the car. In its paperwork and mileage, this is one of those rare ‘time capsule’ cars that are seldom to be found.

AMENDMENT: THERE IS NO TAX ON THIS CAR CONTRARY TO WHAT IS STATED IN THE PRINTED CATALOGUE