Austin 3-Litre (ADO61). 1967–71 (prod. 9,992). 4-door saloon. F/R, 2912 cm³ (I6 OHV). Ill thought-out big Austin, using centre section from smaller 1800 and out of step with new executive saloons from Rover and Triumph. Excellent ride and sumptuous interior, but thirsty and underpowered. Less interior room than 1800. Shown at London Motor Show 1967 and enjoyed a “soft” launch; full launch in 1968 with four round headlamps and, after the first 1,000 units or so, front quarterlights in the windows. Buyers stayed away and the model was cancelled in 1971, having sold far worse than its predecessor.

Manufacturing location: Longbridge, Birmingham, England

Marque: Austin | Predecessor: Austin A110 Westminster

Off-site link

• Austin Rover Online: ‘Misunderstood’