Austin A40 Cambridge (1954-56)

The Austin A40 Cambridge, produced from 1954 to 1958, represented a significant technological leap for Austin. Here are some insights into its common issues:

Cumbersome Driving Experience: Despite its new ‘chassisless’ design, the A40 Cambridge was cumbersome and slow to drive in standard form1.

Plain Design: The A40 Cambridge was relatively plain compared to its A50 sibling. Even base models lacked wind-up windows2.

Overshadowed by A50: Although the A40 Cambridge sold reasonably well, it was overshadowed by the success of the larger-engined A50 version. When the shell was restyled in early 1957, the A40 itself was discontinued3.

In summary, while the A40 Cambridge had its limitations, it remains a popular classic with thriving club support and parts availability.

Generations
The Austin Cambridge was produced in several generations from September 1954 through to 1969 as cars and to 1971 as light commercials. It replaced the A40 Somerset and featured modern unibody construction. The range included the A40, A50, A55, and A60 models. The A40 Cambridge itself was initially offered only with a four-passenger, four-door saloon body, although a few pre-production two-door models were also made. Only 30,666 A40 Cambridge models were produced.

Body Styles
The Austin Cambridge was produced in several generations from September 1954 through to 1969 as cars and to 1971 as light commercials. It replaced the A40 Somerset and featured modern unibody construction. The range included the A40, A50, A55, and A60 models. The A40 Cambridge itself was initially offered only with a four-passenger, four-door saloon body, although a few pre-production two-door models were also made. Only 30,666 A40 Cambridge models were produced.

Versions
The Austin Cambridge was a family of compact and mid-size cars that debuted in 1954. It replaced the Austin A40 and was sold in four main variants: the A40, A50, A55, and A601. The A40 Cambridge itself was intended to be available in both two-door saloon and four-door saloon variants, although only the four-door style reached production, resulting in a total of 30,666 A40 Cambridge models produced.

Spares
If you’re looking for Austin A40 Cambridge spare parts in the UK and Ireland, here are some options:
1. Austin Classic Car Parts: They have a variety of Austin parts in stock, including items like air filters, brake components, gaskets, and more. You can contact them if you can’t find what you’re looking for.
2. MEV Spares: While they specialize in steering, suspension, engine, and brake parts for various Austin models, they may have parts for the A40 Cambridge as well.
3. Honest John: Although not a direct parts supplier, Honest John provides information on classic cars, including the A40 Cambridge. They mention thriving club support and parts supply for this model.
4. Claytons Austin A30 and A35 Parts: While they specifically focus on A30 and A35 models, they might have some compatible parts for the A40 Cambridge as well.
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Specialists
Here are some specialists in the UK and Ireland who can help with your Austin A40 Cambridge (1954-56):

1. **The Cambridge-Oxford Owners Club**: This club offers support, parts, and advice for owners of Austin Cambridge models.
2. **Honest John Classics**: They provide reviews and information on classic cars, including the Austin A40 Cambridge.
3. **Simon Cars**: A resource for classic car enthusiasts, offering detailed information and support for the Austin A40 Cambridge.

**NORTHERN IRELAND AUSTIN SPECIALIST LIST**

Austin specialist mechanics in County Antrim, Northern Ireland:
1. McMillan Specialist Cars: They offer a wide range of services including maintenance, repairs, and full restorations. They are located at Unit 10, Plasketts Close, Kilbegs Road, Antrim BT41 4NN. You can contact them at 028 9335 49111.
2. Nufinish: With over 18 years of experience, they handle smart cosmetic and light damage repairs. They are located at Unit 24, Antrim Business Park, Randalstown Road, Antrim BT41 4LH. Their contact number is 028 9446 60142.
3. D S Autos: This garage specialises in all makes and models of car repairs, including servicing, diagnostics, and more. They are based at 67 Church St, Antrim BT41 4BE. You can reach them at 028 9446 66623.

Austin Specialists in County Armagh Northern Ireland
Here are a few options for Austin specialist mechanics in County Armagh, Northern Ireland:
1. McMullan Auto Services: They offer a range of services including car servicing, maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs. They are located at 85A Fergort Rd, Armagh BT60 3DN. You can contact them at 028 3753 17661.
2. Elite Motor Performance: This garage provides various auto repair services and is based in Armagh2.
3. Pittstop: Another option in Armagh, offering comprehensive garage services2.
If you need more details or have specific requirements, feel free to let me know!

Austin Specialist in County Down Northern Ireland
John Chatham Cars
• Location: Wellinghouse Farm, Moorhouse Lane, Hallen, Bristol BS10 7RT
• Services: Specializes in restoring, treating, and maintaining Austin Healeys and other classic British sports cars from the '50s, '60s, and '70s. They offer classic car restoration, servicing, and race preparation.
• Contact: You can reach them at 0117 950 1836. More information is available on their website.
Merlin Classic Cars
• Location: The Ropery, Unit 1C Redmoor Lane, Stockport SK22 3JL
• Services: Renowned for their restoration, maintenance, race preparation, and sales of all Austin Healey marques. They have over 30 years of experience in restoring classic and vintage vehicles.
• Contact: You can contact them at 01663 746499. More details can be found on their website.

Austin mechanic specialist in County Fermanagh Northern Ireland
1. Lochside Garages: While they are primarily Vauxhall dealers, they offer comprehensive servicing and repairs for various car brands. They are located at 22 Tempo Road, Enniskillen BT74 6HR. You can contact them at 028 6632 4366.
2. Enniskillen Motor Services: They provide a range of vehicle services, including diagnostics, repairs, and maintenance. They are based in Enniskillen.
3. Austin mechanic specialist in County Londonderry Northern Ireland

Austin specialist mechanics in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland:
1. Lloyd Cooke Motors Ltd: They provide expert vehicle maintenance and car bodywork repairs. Located at 53 Lismacarol Road, Londonderry BT47 3LZ. You can contact them at 028 7130 2100.
2. S M C Motors: Offering a range of garage services throughout County Londonderry.
3. Satnams Garage: Another reliable option for various auto repair services in Londonderry.

Austin specialist mechanics in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland:
1. KG Truck & Plant: Based in Dungannon, they offer mobile mechanics for plant machinery and hydraulic repairs. They provide 24/7 on-site services and have over 20 years of experience. You can contact them at 07771 904 505.
2. NR Trucks Ltd: Located at 70 Armagh Road, Dungannon, they offer a range of services for commercial vehicles. You can reach them at 028 8778 9775.
3. Tyrone Diesel Systems: Specialising in the testing and repair of diesel fuel systems, they are the only fully-authorised Bosch Diesel Centre in Northern Ireland. They are based in Omagh

These specialists should be able to assist you with parts, advice, and support for your Austin A40 Cambridge.
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Racing
The Austin A40 Cambridge (1954-56) was not widely known for its involvement in major racing events. However, like many classic cars of its era, it did see some action in club racing and local rallying circuits. Enthusiasts often used these cars in smaller, amateur racing events, appreciating their robust design and reliability.