
Austin A30 1956
I bought my 1956 4 door A30 in I985. It lay in a barn for 9 years; the body was in sound condition although I expected many of the components to be seized including the engine. I had a spare engine and acquired wheel cylinders and seals through the club and had most parts re-chromed. I sprayed the car powder blue, and the interior is original. Mainly used in the Spring and Autumn months when the weather allows, the older generation love to see the car and talk about the A30/35s they had owned. It seems to bring back good memories for them, and I enjoy driving it and watching the response from passers by as they smile and point. Even the youngsters like the car and if they could, they would like to own one as it is so different and gives them a sense of identity.
Some A30/35 facts: Originally considered in the 1940s, they first appeared at the 1951 Earls Court Motor Show at a cost of £504.
Also available were the van, estate, pick-up and only one convertible made (I believe); the pick-ups being very rare. Around 34% were exported. 1959 saw the arrival of the Mini and the end of the A30s.
There is a local club and we meet on the 1st Mon. of each month at 7-30 at the Old Oak, Arlington. Mike Rosner.
Engine
4 Cylinders in line
Bore: 58mm, Stroke: 76mm
Displacement: 803cc
Valvegear: o.h.v push rods & rockers
Compression ratio: 9:1
Carburettors: Zenith 26VME or 26JS or a single SU Type HS2
Power output: 30bhp at
4,800 rpm
Transmission
Clutch: Borg and Beck 61/4in
single dry plate
Gearbox: 4 speed with direct drive
in top, synchromesh on 3 upper ratios
Propellar Shaft: tubular, needle roller bearing universal joints
Performance
Maximum speed: 63 mph
Acceleration: 0-50 mph 23.2secs
Wheels
Pressed steel disc, 5.20 x 13in crossply
Dimensions & Weight
Wheelbase: 6ft 7in
Track - front: 3ft 9in
Track - rear: 3ft 9in
Overall length: 11ft 6in
Overall width: 4ft 6in
Overall height: 4ft 8in
Ground clearance: 61/2in
Turning circle: 32ft
Kerb weight: 15cwt
Tank capacity: 6 gallons
Overall fuel consumption: 35mpg
Construction
Unitary, all steel body
Steering
Worm & peg
2.3 turns lock to lock
Brakes
Lockheed hydraulic,
7in drums all round
Suspension
Front: Independent, coil springs with wishbones, and lever arm hydaulic shock absorbers
Rear: Live axle with semi-elliptic, leaf springs and lever arm shock absorbers
Production
A30 Saloon 1952-56: 223,264
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