Austin A35

ENGINE 948cc/4-cyl/OHV POWER 34bhp@4750rpm TORQUE 50lb ft@2000rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 72mph 0-60MPH 30sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 34-42mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed manual MoT 12 months ODOMETER 42,610 miles

This little A35 starts instantly and first gear just gets the wheels turning. While changes can be swift, rushing selection doesn’t always help with gearboxes of this era. B-road cruising is around 45mph. The suspension prefers smooth surfaces although it deals with the odd pothole well enough. The steering on this example is positive and the brakes are confident for a 1950s classic. It’s a pleasure to drive anywhere bar the motorway – it’s not a classic for huge distances or high speeds, but it does put a smile on your face.

BODYWORK CHECK

The comprehensive 2005 restoration still has a paint finish that looks no more than a couple of years old. Close inspection reveals a small touch-in on the bonnet front edge and another on the nearside front door, while the chrome is excellent with just the boot hinges showing their age. New door and window rubbers are fitted all around. The underside is well protected, but we doubt this Austin has seen much bad weather in recent

years and the Michelin tyres all look fresh. The panel gaps are exact and even the closest inspection offers no signs of repair work or filler.

HOW’S THE INTERIOR?

The leather seat covers are original and undamaged. The carpet has some light wear but has been well-protected with overmats. The Furflux trim at the base of the offside door opening is worn and the driver’s door card is loose at the base, but the vendor has replacement clips on order. The limited number of switches operate correctly, as does the heater, which, combined with original quarter light opening, should clear the windscreen on cold mornings. The painted dash is excellent if a little sparse, with no radio fitted.

UNDER THE BONNET

The engine bay is superbly presented, with the A-series engine painted Austin green and ancillaries gloss black. There are no signs of coolant or oil leaks and the windscreen washer system still has the original Tudor bottle – worn lettering may encourage the perfectionist to replace it. The ignition system is all-new but some additional wiring features brightly-coloured modern connections, which look a bit out of place. The history file is comprehensive.

THE CCW VIEW

This was one of the last A35 saloons ever made and it remained in the care of its first owner for decades. The restoration work carried out was done to a very high standard because this Austin still looks showroom-fresh. The model’s historic racing series aside, the A35 is no sports car, but they are fun to drive. This one represents an ideal first time classic – easy to maintain and will always attract attention. Grant Ford