1958 Austin A105

Lot details
Registration No: UWF 323
Chassis No: B57/HCO/48825
Mot Expiry: June 2008

A more powerful and upmarket version of the Austin A90 Westminster, the A105 debuted in May 1956. Sharing its twin SU carburettor fed BMC C-series 2.6 litre OHV straight-six engine with the upcoming Austin-Healey 100-Six sportscar, the newcomer also boasted Borg-Warner overdrive (acting on 3rd and 4th) as standard. Available in a range of special colours and with a variety of extra 'comfort' equipment, the A105 was further differentiated from the A90 by its subtly lowered suspension (independent coil-and-wishbone front / leaf-sprung 'live' axle rear). Facelifted alongside its lesser sibling in October 1956, the A105 adopted the same stretched wheelbase, wraparound rear windscreen and 'long-tail' bodywork (though, it did not undergo a name change whereas the A90 became the A95). Notable for winning the inaugural British Saloon Car Championship in 1958 thanks to 'Gentleman' Jack Sears' inspired driving the A105 was dropped from production the following year.

Finished in Tweed Grey over Cream with red / grey leather upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "good" condition with regard to its engine, four-speed manual plus overdrive gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim, chassis, bodywork, paintwork and wheels / tyres. Reportedly still retaining its original 'UWF 323' registration number, the Austin is believed but not warranted to have covered just 29,850 miles from new. Though, this figure is said to be at least partially substantiated by "seventeen old MOTs, fifteen expired tax discs and a large history file". Apparently part of a "large indoor private collection for many years", the Austin sports various tasteful period accessories such as a well stocked badge-bar, steel sunvisor, period valve radio and spotlamps. While, its impressive appearance is further heightened by whitewall tyres and wing mirrors. A wonderful period piece, this nicely presented Austin A105 is offered for sale with "original tools and handbooks" as well as a MOT certificate and historic class (free) road tax both valid until June 2008.

PLEASE NOTE: This lot comes with a single handbook. Also, while the accompanying tools are period items they may or may not have been original to the car.