Description
The Austin FX4D Taxi was the diesel-powered evolution of the iconic FX4, widely recognized as the classic London black cab. Introduced in the 1970s, the “D” in FX4D simply denoted its diesel engine, which was a significant shift from the original petrol-powered versions that debuted in 1958. This change reflected the demands of professional taxi drivers who needed better fuel economy and engine longevity for the long hours and mileage typical of city cab work.
Early FX4Ds were fitted with a 2.5-litre diesel engine from British Leyland, later replaced by more robust units like the 2.7-litre Land Rover diesel and eventually the famously reliable Nissan diesel engine in the late-model Fairways. These powerplants were not particularly quick, but they were sturdy, economical, and well-suited to the stop-start nature of urban driving.
On the outside, the FX4D retained the familiar, almost regal silhouette of the FX4, with its upright grille, domed roof, generous rear quarters, and signature round headlamps. Inside, the cab featured a split driver-passenger compartment, large enough in the rear to accommodate three adults and a fair amount of luggage. It was built for practicality and comfort, with accessible rear doors, a flat floor, and jump seats for extra capacity.
One of the FX4D’s standout features was its legendary turning circle—just 25 feet—allowing it to navigate narrow London streets and U-turn on a sixpence. This maneuverability was part of the London Public Carriage Office’s strict licensing standards and helped solidify the FX4D’s place in the urban landscape.
The FX4D became the most common sight on British roads through the ’70s and ’80s, gradually updated with modest refinements in trim, lighting, and comfort. Though it was often slow and somewhat agricultural by modern standards, it was beloved by drivers for its workhorse durability and by passengers for its dependability and charm.
Today, the FX4D represents a nostalgic and mechanical link to London’s motoring heritage. It’s a favorite among collectors and often restored for use in classic car events or as private hire vehicles for weddings and tours. Its unmistakable shape and diesel chug still evoke the timeless rhythm of the capital’s streets.