Austin A40 Farina (1958-67)

The Austin A40 Farina (1958-1967) is a classic car with its own set of common faults:

1. **Rust**: This is a significant issue, particularly around the wheel arches, underbody, and the panel beneath the radiator grille¹².
2. **Vague Steering**: The steering can feel vague and imprecise, which can affect the driving experience².
3. **Woolly Brakes**: The brakes can feel soft and less responsive, especially in the earlier models with hydro-mechanical brakes².
4. **Electrical Issues**: Older wiring can lead to various electrical problems¹.
5. **Cooling System Problems**: Overheating can occur if the cooling system is not well-maintained¹.

Despite these issues, the A40 Farina remains a beloved classic for many enthusiasts.
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Generations
The Austin A40 Farina was produced in **two main generations**:

1. **Mark I (1958-1961)**: This initial version featured a 948cc A-Series engine and was available in both saloon and Countryman (estate) body styles.
2. **Mark II (1961-1967)**: This version saw improvements such as a larger 1098cc engine and various design updates.

These generations provided a range of options and improvements over the years.
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Body Styles
The Austin A40 Farina was offered in **two main body styles**:

1. **2-Door Saloon**: This was the standard body style, featuring a compact and practical design.
2. **3-Door Countryman (Estate)**: Introduced in 1959, this version had a split tailgate, making it one of the early examples of a hatchback.

These body styles provided options for both everyday use and more versatile cargo carrying.
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Engines
The Austin A40 Farina (1958-1967) was fitted with the following engines:

1. **948cc A-Series Inline-4**: This engine was used in the early models (1958-1962) and produced around 34-37 horsepower.
2. **1098cc A-Series Inline-4**: Introduced in 1962, this engine produced around 48 horsepower and was used until the end of production in 1967.

These engines were known for their simplicity and reliability, making the A40 Farina a popular choice in its time.
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Spares
You can find spares for your Austin A40 Farina (1958-1967) at several places in the UK and Ireland:

1. **MEV Spares**: Specializes in parts for classic cars, including the Austin A40 Farina. They offer a wide range of components such as engine, suspension, steering, and brake parts.
2. **Longbridge Motor Spares**: Provides a comprehensive catalogue of parts for the Austin A40 Farina, including both new and reconditioned items.
3. **Old Classic Car**: Lists various A40 Farina parts and memorabilia being sold in the UK and internationally.

These sources should help you find the parts you need to keep your A40 Farina in top condition.
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Specialists
Here are some specialists in the UK and Ireland who can help with your Austin A40 Farina:

1. **The Cambridge-Oxford Owners Club**: This club offers support, parts, and advice for owners of various Austin models, including the A40 Farina.
2. **Honest John Classics**: They provide reviews and information on classic cars, including the Austin A40 Farina.
3. **Classic Cars for Sale UK**: A marketplace for buyers and traders of classic cars, where you can find parts and services for the Austin A40 Farina.

**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 Farina.
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Racing
The Austin A40 Farina did participate in racing. While there was no official works involvement in circuit racing, the A40 Farina was campaigned by various privateers at club level. Notably, Doc Shepherd secured the British Saloon Car Championship in 1960 with an A40 Farina.

The 1960 British Saloon Car Championship (BSCC) was the third season of the championship. Here are some key details:

- **Format**: The championship ran to a 'silhouette' formula with an engine capacity limit of 1000cc.
- **Champion**: Doc Shepherd won the drivers' title with an Austin A40, run by Don Moore Racing.
- **Notable Races**: The season included races at well-known circuits like Brands Hatch, Snetterton, Mallory Park, Oulton Park, and Silverstone.
- **Competition**: The championship featured fierce competition, with drivers like John Young and Edward Lewis also performing strongly.

Doc Shepherd's victory in the Austin A40 was a significant achievement, highlighting the car's capabilities in the racing world.