Austin A 90 Classic Cars for Sale

History of the Austin A 90

The Austin A90 name was borne by two innovative British vehicles. The first, the Austin A90 Atlantic (1949-1952), targeted the upper mid-range market with both cabriolet and saloon versions. It was created during an era of renewed ambition for Austin, aiming to break into the sports car segment with influences drawn from Italian styling, notably Pininfarina. Innovations included curved wings, enclosed rear wheel arches, central fog lamp, and one of the earliest uses of modern flashing indicators instead of semaphores. Production was limited to 7,981 units before it ceased, largely due to unfulfilled commercial expectations. Its successor, the Austin A90 Westminster (1954-1956), represented Austin's ambition to cater to a growing market for refined saloons with accessible luxury and greater performance.

Model History of the Austin A 90 Series

The Austin A90 Atlantic, which succeeded the Austin A70, marked Austin's push into export markets, especially the USA, following World War II. Despite technical sophistication and distinctive design, the A90 Atlantic’s sales numbers remained modest, leading to a quick phase-out and replacement by the A90 Westminster. The Westminster, introduced in 1954, adopted a more conventional saloon style and was available in Standard and DeLuxe trims. It carried forward the A90 badge until 1956, later giving way to the Austin A95 and A105 models.

Highlights of the Austin A 90 Series

The A90 Atlantic is notable for its styling details inspired by contemporary Italian design, such as elegantly curved fenders and chrome accents. Its use of flashing indicators in place of trafficators placed it ahead of its time. The Atlantic's powertrain—a 2660 cc inline-four paired with innovative semi-hydraulic brakes—represented forward-thinking engineering. The A90 Westminster brought to market robust six-cylinder performance, independent front suspension, and lavishly appointed interiors with leather and PVC options. Both models set benchmarks for Austin’s technological advances in their respective years.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

The Austin A90 Westminster was available in both Standard and DeLuxe variants, with DeLuxe models featuring further luxury appointments. While no formally designated limited editions are documented, surviving Atlantics—particularly early cabriolets with original details—are considered especially notable due to their lower production numbers and distinctive design.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Specific weak spots are undocumented, but as with many postwar British classics, attention is advised for body corrosion, especially in areas prone to water ingress like wheel arches and sills. Early semi-hydraulic braking setups on the Atlantic require regular maintenance; later hydraulic conversions improve reliability. For the Westminster, inspection of independent suspension components and careful checking of engine health due to known period oil consumption is recommended.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The A90 Atlantic’s engine provided competitive output for the early 1950s, making 88 bhp from its four-cylinder while enabling a maximum speed of 147 km/h. Its handling benefited from a rear frame cylinder and later a fully hydraulic braking system. The Westminster’s six-cylinder engine, coupled with a four-speed manual (and optional overdrive), enabled 0-100 km/h in around 19 seconds, supported by a suspension setup with coil springs upfront and leaf springs at the rear for stability. The inclusion of an anti-roll bar was advanced for its class, enhancing lateral control and driver confidence on country roads. - Austin A90 Atlantic Cabriolet: Most sought-after among collectors due to distinctive design and production rarity.

• Austin A90 Westminster DeLuxe: Recognised for additional interior features and well-maintained examples are valued for comfort and touring capabilities.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Both A90 models reflect mid-century British automotive elegance. The Atlantic’s exterior showcased swooping curves, a central fog lamp, enclosed rear wheel arches, and bright chrome elements that referenced Italian influences. The Westminster adopted a dignified saloon profile with sculpted chrome grilles and rounded lighting units. Interiors of both featured extensive use of leather and PVC; the Westminster in particular offered well-appointed seating and numerous factory options including armrests and efficient heating. Chrome inlays on doors and rounded fenders added tactile quality to the luxury-oriented ambience. Attention to curved bodywork and subtle design cues like inset headlights contributed to their period appeal.

Other Noteworthy Features

The Atlantic pioneered several modern features ahead of its time, such as indicator lights instead of traditional semaphores. Both models were designed for export ambitions, evident in robust build quality and attention to international stylistic trends. The Westminster’s optional overdrive transmission made long-distance touring more attractive, reflecting increasing user demands for comfort and efficiency in the 1950s.

Summary

The Austin A90 series, covering both the Atlantic and Westminster, stands apart for its blend of advanced engineering, mid-century luxury, and rare stylistic flourishes. Distinct from other Austin models by their short production runs and features such as early adoption of modern electrical systems and refined interior treatments, A90s are significant representations of postwar British automotive ambition. Their focused presence on the classic car market, as confirmed by the high share of available and viewed listings, makes them prized acquisitions for those seeking technical advancement and history in a single package.