1959 Austin A105 Westminster Vanden Plas

This is a rare and exciting opportunity to acquire a 1959 Austin A105 Westminster Vanden Plas. It is finished in Sage Green with Metallic Regency Grey Flash with Green Vaumol hide upholstery. It’s a 4-speed manual, fitted with factory overdrive. This example is believed to be one of the most original examples in existence.

This is a UK RHD Home market car, offered in its original specification, including its factory-fitted, period radio. It comes with luxury features such as a heater, whitewall tyres and it was trimmed at Vanden Plas. This car was the vendor’s late husband’s favourite car, and it was a lifelong dream to own one. As such, it was quite an undertaking for the vendor to find such a prime example with only few remaining. The car was purchased by the vendor back in 1999 from its former keeper who had it garage stored. The car is being sold on behalf of the vendor’s son.

The car has been much loved and lightly used (hence the 30k miles on the odometer). The vendor's son has fond memories of taking the Austin to multiple car shows across the country over the years, and in his words: “The car always drummed up lots of interest and requests for first refusal”. He goes on to say: “It runs well and sounds great…the electrics are good; it had a speedometer change from 21,000 to 28,000 miles”. However, the vendor has documented all the mileage manually.

This is a highly original example of this traditional four-door saloon. The front fascia features a prominent and chrome-plated grille positioned between the rounded headlights. As one would expect, the Austin badge is displayed proudly at its centre. The headlights are integrated into the front fenders on either side of the grille and they are enclosed within a chrome housing, adding a touch of elegance. The body is furnished with substantial chrome bumpers both at the front and rear. It features rounded fenders that flow smoothly from the front to the rear. The wraparound rear window and windscreen mean the A-pillars are dainty, with the upside of providing excellent visibility. The wheels are covered by chrome hubcaps that feature the Austin logo. It has the Austin brand and model designation displayed on the boot, which nod to the car’s heritage and authenticity. Whilst there is no paperwork to support any of the panels being replaced, the vendor’s son explains that the rear panel on the driver’s side looks slightly glossed compared to the rest of the body. The shut lines are good; the lights appear to be free from condensation build-up and the chromework looks tidy throughout.

The cabin offers spacious and comfortable seating for up to five occupants. The seats are upholstered in premium sage green leather, which is enhanced by features such as the drop-down arm rests, badging (between the front and rear windows) and lights. Rear passengers are accommodated by a bench seat and they have the amenity of an ash tray on the seat-backs of the driver and front passenger seat. The dashboard has a clean and elegant design that features wood veneer and chrome accents. The large and stylish black and chrome steering wheel adds a nice period touch. The door panels are glorious, with functional yet beautiful chrome instruments. The wood veneer on the window surrounds add a wonderful touch of craftmanship and attention to detail. The centre console features an original radio and a clock, incorporating wood veneer. The green carpet is slightly faded (so may benefit from a shampoo) but it is protected by rubber mats; the door sills and headlining are tidy throughout. The car offers ample storage options thanks to the glove compartment, door pockets and sizeable rear boot, which looks clear of surface rust.

This is a rare manual floor change model with overdrive. It packs a 2600cc engine with twin carbs which is mated to a 4-speed manual transmission. The power output is 102bhp and can reach a top speed of 95mph. The engine is equipped with a liquid cooling system that uses a radiator and a water pump to regulate the engine's temperature. Underneath appears to be dry and everything looks to be in its right and proper place, though the radiator may benefit from a deep clean.

The car comes with a comprehensive service history and the vendor’s son assures us that the car comes with MoT certificates dating back to 1973. It has only had two former keepers displayed on the V5c registration book. The car is complete with two sets of keys and is supplied with the Austin maintenance service booklet, original Austin driver’s handbook and the maintenance instruction book, Vanden Plas sales brochure, service parts list and lubrication charts.

This is a superbly original example of a very rare car. There is no obvious sign of corrosion on the bodywork - it has evidently been loved and cherished throughout its 63+ year lifespan. It is being sold with a comprehensive history file which details the work carried out, previous MoT certificates and a large amount of period literature, workshop manuals, original service booklet and handbook. Please note that this car has had a speedo change from 21,000 miles to 28,000 miles in 2017. This car is in a condition that would satisfy someone who is keen to do some refurbishments as well as those who prefer to polish than to get their hands oily.

Viewing is always encouraged, and this car can be seen in Newcastle-under-Lyme, United Kingdom; to arrange an appointment please use the ‘Contact Seller’ button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.