A 1948 Austin

Sir,

The tales of woe, recounted by fellow readers concerning their modern BLMC cars, are similar to my own experiences, which have caused me to seek out a more mundane form of transportation.

My best car to date was my first, a splendid all black 1948 Austin 10. This, purchased in 1965 for £29, had leather seats, sunroof and heater. It went and went and top speed of about 65 m.p.h. felt like 90, and it returned 30-35 m.p.g. with 1,500 plus to the pint. All repairs and servicing were the usual oil changes, brake relining, etc., but very cheap (over £15 being very expensive). It started first time every time and was very strongly constructed; necessary as I clipped the odd post, wall, etc., in those early driving days of mine!

It had a damp carpet smell inside always, very comfy seats and featured a roller blind over the rear window. I miss the driving experiences of always steering towards the pavement when braking (it had cable and rod brakes) and occasionally having to dismantle the gear-change in traffic in order to select another gear. Indeed, everything mechanical could be easily got at; so very unlike my present Mini 1000 Mk. 2.

As a “bird-puller” I was surprised as it wasn’t very hairy but they seemed fascinated by it, and quite content to sit holding a bucket under the sunshine roof when it was raining!

I am now resolved to have another, or similar, early machine. I may not speed along but will undoubtedly have more fun, spend less and have generally more peace of mind.

Radcliffe-on-Trent N. O. Richardson