Classic cars forum & vehicle restoration.
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Ray White

Joined: 02 Dec 2014 Posts: 7115 Location: Derby
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Posted: Sun Mar 27, 2022 10:29 pm Post subject: Austin A30 |
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https://www.carandclassic.com/auctions/1956-austin-a30-ndjL58
That these cars have survived in reasonable numbers is, I think, testament to their build quality. For a basic no-frills car it ticked all the boxes and in it's day was a popular choice for those of moderate means.
My first proper car (ie. 4 wheels) was an A30 almost identical to this one. The only difference that I can see is that this one has opening rear quarter windows while mine were fixed.
As I may have mentioned before my A30 was a lovely low mileage example belonging to the little old lady who lived in the cottage opposite our house. She had owned the car from new and had always had it correctly maintained. The A30 was only used for holidays and taking her friends to church on Sundays. It was always garaged and covered over with a blanket in the winter!
My Dad was able to negotiate a very low purchase price because at that time these cars were just not fashionable. Even so, I felt he took advantage of the old dear, but she was happy that it would be going to someone she knew would appreciate it.
This Austin A30 (otherwise known as an AS4) looks absolutely original and in need of nothing as far as I can see. Restoration would be pointless in my opinion. |
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Rick Site Admin

Joined: 27 Apr 2005 Posts: 22784 Location: UK
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Ray White

Joined: 02 Dec 2014 Posts: 7115 Location: Derby
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Posted: Mon Mar 28, 2022 12:56 am Post subject: |
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Rick wrote: | Definitely looks like a nice car (although I prefer Standard 8s/10s tbh)
RJ |
The Standard 10 was definitely a better offering with a four speed box and more powerful engine. It also had not suffered from initial design meddling which resulted in the A30's "dumpy" look. Ironically, the quaint, "cuddly" look is now what sells the cars!
Sadly, the 803 engine - with it's white metal bearings - lets the car down and only a transplant to a later unit will improve that. A real shame actually but once done you wouldn't go back,  |
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Ray White

Joined: 02 Dec 2014 Posts: 7115 Location: Derby
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Posted: Mon Mar 28, 2022 11:08 pm Post subject: |
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So this incredible time warp A30 has failed to sell on this occasion. It was bid to £6000. All things considered, I can understand why it was considered not enough.
It's easy for me to say I would have paid more but what would a buyer get for their money? The condition is apparently "good original" but I do wonder if it is all that it seems? I think - odd as it may sound - I would be more convinced if there were at least some signs of natural ageing and use. |
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mikeC

Joined: 31 Jul 2009 Posts: 1809 Location: Market Warsop, Nottinghamshire
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Posted: Tue Mar 29, 2022 8:30 am Post subject: |
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I would have thought that was a fair price for both buyer and seller - it's not the most desirable version. Someone wanting to use it would go for an A35 with the 948cc engine, whilst someone wanting to own an early car would want to go for one with the earlier dash layout. _________________ in the garage: 1938 Talbot Ten Airline
Recently departed: 1953 Lancia Appia, 1931 Austin Seven, 1967 Singer Chamois, 1914 Saxon, 1930 Morris Cowley, 1936 BSA Scout, 1958 Lancia Appia coupe, 1922 Star 11.9 ... the list goes on! |
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Rick Site Admin

Joined: 27 Apr 2005 Posts: 22784 Location: UK
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