1962 Austin Farina A40 MkII

First rolling off the production line in 1961, the museum’s 1962 example of the Mark II model is in excellent condition.

Remaining in production until 1967, the A40 Farina came with a price-tag of just under £700 on the road. With a 3.5” longer wheelbase than the Mark I to increase the space for rear seat passengers, the Mark II boasted more power than its predecessor, resulting in an acceleration of 0-50mph in 17.4 seconds.

Although the Mark II had more power than its predecessor, the 948cc engine was upgraded later in 1962, to a 48 horsepower 1098cc version – an engine it shared with the Morris Minor.

The brakes also evolved into a fully hydraulic system, replacing the semi cable-operated rear system.

Despite these changes and innovations, sales of the Mark II slowed in the following years due to the popularity of the Morris 1100 and similar Austin-badged vehicles which left the A40 looking cramped on the inside, as well as being outclassed by the new vehicles’ handling. In fact, sales of the A40 Mark II were slower than those achieved by the Mark I, and the Farina became the final model in Austin’s A40 line.

In order to distinguish it from other A40 models, the ‘Farina’ name was added so as not to confuse it with previous versions – some of which were named after different English counties.

Further reading

• Austin A40 Farina on Wikipedia
• Austin A40 Farina review on Honest John Classics