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ENGINE 1622cc/4-cyl/OHV POWER 61bhp@4500rpm TORQUE 90lb ft@2100rpm TOP SPEED 80mph 0-60MPH 20sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 24-28mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed manual MoT July 2018 ODOMETER 46,000 miles

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

It’s impossible to fault this superb car’s performance. The engine fires willingly from cold and idles sweetly with minimal choke required to get it underway. Power comes smoothly and willingly, and the oil pressure settles in the mid-range – around 50-60psi. Meanwhile there are no wobbles or noises to spoil the experience (in fact, it’s very comfortable), so motorway speeds can be sustained effortlessly. The clutch has quite a high biting point, but all the gears select with perfect evenness, and while the brakes need firm persuasion, they bring the car to a halt without drama.

BODYWORK CHECK

The body is in beautiful condition. The Grampian Grey paint has worn smooth around the door edges, revealing metal beneath, but this suggests that, apart from some tiny touched-in chips on the wings, the paint could be original. The only noteworthy blemish is a small dent in the rear bumper – otherwise all the brightwork is shiny and undamaged. A period Lucas reversing lamp is fitted at the rear. There’s no visible corrosion in the wheel arches, sills or door bottoms. The wheels are in good condition, despite some flaking paint around their edges, and are fitted with new, matching Falken 165/80 R14 tyres.

HOW’S THE INTERIOR?

The leather appears to be original. It has only a gentle patina and remains supple with no frays or splits. The dashboard top and wooden trim are all in beautiful unmarked condition, and the discreet ‘Classic & Historic Motor Club’ badge fixed to the dash suggests a dedicated previous owner. Period, non-inertia reel seatbelts are fitted up front. The carpets look original and are only very slightly worn around the edges, but the immaculate headlining is presumably recent. The boot contains an original starting handle and its floor is solid.

UNDER THE BONNET

There’s zero corrosion in the engine bay, and small details such as recent jubilee clips and hoses, a correct battery clamp and a clean in-line fuel filter all point towards thoughtful maintenance. There are no leaks and no emulsion under the oil filler cap. The car comes with a large history file; this itemises various sundries in recent years, including repairs to the windscreen and radiator in 2014, and even a hand-written service record from 1969 to 1985. The seller has known this vehicle many years and can provide information about much of its history.

THE CCW VIEW

Originality and a lovely drive make this car very tempting. It’s one of only 340 Austin A60s on the road in Britain. There are cheaper examples around, but this is still a true bargain at this price. Theo Ford-Sagers