Austin 1800 Mk I

Austin 1800 (ADO17). 1964–8 (prod. 210,000 approx. incl. Mk II and III). 4-door saloon. F/F, 1798 cm³ (I4 OHV). Nicknamed the Landcrab, very wide (three inches shorter than Ford Cortina Mk II but five inches wider) and roomy large car with unconventional styling, using the Mini formula of front-wheel drive and transversely mounted engine. Hydrolastic suspension, aiding ride comfort. Stiff structure, and heavy. Detuned MGB engine. Uncomfortable driving position, and generally dull to drive. Power steering from 1967, automatic from 1968. Morris equivalent launched in 1966. Intended to replace the Farina saloons, but never did, winding up in a class above, and selling well below expectations as a result.

Manufacturing location: Longbridge, West Midlands, England

Marque: Austin | Model: Austin 1800 | Successor: Austin 1800 Mk II