Description

The Austin A35 was a small family car produced by Austin from 1956 to 1968, succeeding the A30. While visually similar to its predecessor, the A35 featured several improvements, making it a more refined and capable vehicle. It was designed to provide economical and reliable transportation for families and small businesses in post-war Britain.

The A35 was powered by a 948cc A-Series four-cylinder engine, producing around 34 horsepower. This was a significant improvement over the A30’s 803cc engine, resulting in better acceleration and a higher top speed of approximately 70 mph. The four-speed manual gearbox was updated with improved synchromesh, making gear changes smoother and easier. Fuel efficiency remained excellent, making the A35 a cost-effective choice for budget-conscious drivers.

The styling of the A35 retained the rounded shape of the A30 but featured a larger rear window for better visibility and a painted front grille instead of chrome. The car was available in several body styles, including a two-door and four-door saloon, a two-door Countryman estate, and a light commercial van. The interior remained simple but practical, with seating for four passengers and basic instrumentation on the dashboard.

The A35 was well-regarded for its durability and ease of maintenance, making it popular among private owners and businesses. The van variant, in particular, was widely used for deliveries and small trades, thanks to its reliable performance and practical load space. The A35 also found success in motorsport, with modified versions competing in historic racing events.

Today, the Austin A35 is a beloved classic, cherished by enthusiasts for its charming design, historical significance, and fun driving experience. Many well-preserved examples can be found at vintage car shows and rallies, where they continue to showcase Austin’s engineering and post-war automotive heritage.