1952 Austin A40 Sports Convertible

The Austin A40 was available in three bodystyles including a convertible, sedan, and station wagon in three trim levels, the Countryman (wagon), the Sports Convertible, and the Somerset (Convertible and Sedan). Power was from an overhead-valve four-cylinder engine that displaced 73.2 cubic-inches and developed 42 horsepower. The engine was teamed to a four-speed manual transmission and hydraulic drum brakes were located in the front and the back.

The A40 had a grille with horizontal bars and a vertical divider bar. The grille was flanked on either side by headlamps that were mounted inboard.

In 1949, the A40 Sports made its debut at the Earl's Court Motor Show. It was an aluminum-bodied convertible variant of the A40 Saloon, and was manufactured in partnership with Jensen Motors. Eric Neale of Jensen was responsible for creating the design for the body-on-frame A40 Sports. Jensen created the bodywork and then transported it to Austin for final assembly. By the time production came to an end in 1953, a total of 4,011 examples had been produced. The A40 Sports drop top had seating for four passengers and featured a signature Austin of England nameplate and a Flying A hood ornament.

Along with the twin-SU carbureted 1.2-liter engine, the A40 Sports had a worm-and-roller type steering, independent front suspension and rear semi-elliptic leaf springs.

This particular example has been given a recent restoration with receipts totaling over $60,000. It is finished in red paint with a new tan leather interior.

By Daniel Vaughan | Mar 2016