Description
1950 Austin A70 Hampshire Countryman
One of 900 Austin Hampshire’s converted into Countrymans by Papworth Industries in Cambridgeshire, of which there are less than ten known worldwide, the car on offer being amongst the finest remaining.
Originally exported to Ontario Canada, taken off the road in 1969 showing just 50, 000 miles, it went into storage until 1998.
Colin Peck found the car on a North American website specialising in Austins, flew to Canada and brought it on the spot shipping it home via. New York to Southampton.
It is Colin who we have to thank for the Woodie as it now appears. An extensive restoration covering six year’s ensued including the fitting of a new engine, the car is a credit to his work.
Woodie made its way to a Herefordshire collection of several hundred cars, it was then the whole collection was purchased by Jaguar Land Rover and again went into dry, careful storage.
Eventually JLR disposed of the surplus cars that it didn’t require and Woodie once again came back into the public arena.
We were delighted to be asked to be part of a display organised by the Austin Counties Club, a wonderful and dedicated group of people who celebrate their 50th anniversary this year. Three Austin Woodies shared the club stand at the NEC, the Hampshire, Hereford and an Austin 16, a truly special occasion and applauded by many.
The car remains in very good usable condition, if one were being picky odd areas of paint would benefit from attention but in no way detract, the chrome shows well and the interior benefits from a lovely original patina. Following such long periods of storage this Austin really needs a new curator that is intent on using it.. one word of warning, allow double the time to make any journey ! It’s a magnet for people interested in “what is it”, cameras appear from all angles, “can I take a photo of my wife with it” along with so many compliments, it really is a delight to own.
The main thrust is we need the space but there’s always a caveat, the spirit is strong but the resolve is weak, may be interested in a Hampshire/ Hereford saloon as part ex or perhaps a MK II Consul/ Zephyr.
Happy to answer any questions or supply additional photographs.
