It has been in the family since 1967. First it belonged to the current owner's father and then, in 1972, it was passed onto him. After the acquisition in Madeira, it did not have to undergo major restoration works. However, about 10 years ago, it underwent a major intervention to improve certain aspects which came up over the years. It was completely painted, upholstered, among other improvements.
The Austin 10 is a small 4-door saloon car launched on 19 April 1932 by the Austin Motor Company. It was the best-selling brand in terms of production and upgrades until 1947. It emerged as an addition to the line between the Austin Seven, introduced in 1922, and the Austin Twelve, which received an upgrade in 1931. The car presented a conservative design with a pressed steel bodywork, built on a ladder frame, in order that the car have a low overall height, reducing 7 cm between the axles. The suspension is one of semi-elliptical springs mounted on silent bushings and cushioned by friction dampers. There are cable brakes on all four wheels, which are rod operated by foot pedal or hand lever on the opposite side of the gear lever. It has a 6-volt electrical system. In the first year alone, 2 versions were produced.
During World War II the model received a request to be used by the UK military, with modifications being made to the saloon and pickup versions to suit the needs of British forces. During this period, they became known as "Tillies".
With peace declared in 1945, the factory resumed it civilian production. However, due to the post-war financial crisis, the cars were almost all exported, with the first one arriving in the United States of America in July 1945.
In September 1945, the first passenger cars produced after the end of World War II, arriving in Switzerland, were two Austin Tens exported from England.
The saloon style vehicle continued in production only until October 1947, being then substituted by the A40. The van also reappeared post-war with a slightly larger 1237cc engine.
Datasheet Year: 1946 Brand: Austin Model: Ten Country: England License plate: MA-20-46 Engine: 1125 cc 21 HP Gearbox: 4