Austin A55 Cambridge
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
The Austin feels big and soft on the road; long suspension travel means that it leans into corners and rides quite well over most surfaces with no rattles or shudders from below decks. The engine is smooth, idles happily and pulls well, helped by a crisp gearchange. The all-drum brakes stop the car evenly with no dragging to either side. The steering is free from play and the large wheel helps to offset any heaviness at lower speeds.
BODYWORK CHECK
Originally supplied in a very rare black, this Austin has never been welded but was re-painted below the belt line at some point. It appears to be free from corrosion and the body panels are all in good condition, but there is a tiny ding and small scuff to the offside rear wing, a few marks on the near side front door and some touched-in stone chips on the bonnet. The brightwork is in generally lovely condition; the only pitting is on the front indicator surrounds – the extensive grille and bumper are all superb, likewise the period-correct fog light on the front bumper. The side strips leading back to the big Farina fi ns are smooth and shiny, but the elaborate rear light clusters are quite heavily pitted.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
The red vinyl interior is in fantastic condition and appears to be original, with just a few crease lines to the driver’s seat. The grey-painted metal dashboard is unmarked, the dials are bright and clear, complete with a MW/ LW Radiomobile radio and Motorola speaker mounted below, alongside the optional heater. The steering wheel rim is smooth and shiny and the centre badge is excellent. The carpets are unworn but a little faded and there is a new section in front of the driver with a rubber heel pad. The headlining is clean and tight, while static seat belts have been fitted in the front.
UNDER THE BONNET
The engine bay has a mix of original and new paint. The metal looks solid and there is no sign of accident damage but there is some surface rust. The engine appears original and undisturbed in many years with original paint fl aking from the rocker cover and little left on the block. It does look dry, though, with no serious leaks and the clutch and brake master cylinders appear to be recent additions. On the move, the oil pressure gauge sits around the middle at an indicated 50-60psi and the temperature gauge sits in the middle of the dial.
THE CCW VIEW
This black and red is an unusual colour combination for an A55 but really suits it. This one’s in excellent but usable condition – good enough to show but not so pristine that you would be afraid to use it – and it does drive just as it should, making it a relaxing and enjoyable classic.