1949 Austin A40 Devon owned by Keith Parsloe –
In the late Eighties Keith decided to shop around for an older car suitable for restoring. His first choice was a 1959 6 cylinder Chrysler Royal (those were the days) But after a fruitless search settled for an A40 Chassis and related bits A few people told him it would never become a vehicle and be registered and on the road. Well that was all Keith needed and set out to prove them wrong. One mistake he did make though. It was not until he was well into the rebuilding process before he started taking photos Because he wanted to be able to work on the car, and also to be able to move the car to one side when other jobs came along, Keith scrounged up materials and knocked up a frame on some old coaster wheels, and included a pivot point so the body could be spun and locked in a suitable working position. This worked well and he reckons it saved him from getting a sore back!.
In the early nineties, the Austin, while not totally finished, was ready to be registered. Since then the work on the Austin stopped and Keith is getting too much enjoyment out of driving it to do the final “pretty up”
But you only have to look at the photo above (taken on a recent rally) to appreciate that Keith’s idea of a ” Final pretty up” is probably buffing the windscreen wipers
Austin parts for sale or wanted (click here)
A Historic Milestone
Emerging onto the market in 1947, the Austin A40 Devon quickly captured the hearts of families and individuals. As one of the first new models produced post-war, it signified a major leap toward democratizing car ownership for the British public, showcasing the evolving design and engineering prowess of the era.
Striking Design and Features
The A40 Devon boasts an elegant design with appealing rounded contours and a signature grille that gives this vehicle a unique identity. Available in a range of attractive colors, it allowed buyers to select a model that reflected their personal style.
Beneath the hood lies a dependable 1.2-litre four-cylinder engine renowned for its efficiency. Coupled with a four-speed manual transmission, it delivers a smooth, enjoyable driving experience. Designed to accommodate up to five passengers comfortably, the A40 Devon offers generous legroom and a spacious interior, making it an ideal choice for family trips or daily commutes.
Experience the Drive
Taking the wheel of a 1949 Austin A40 Devon isn’t just about driving; it’s about reliving history. Owners often highlight the surprisingly nimble handling, particularly for a classic car. With its light steering and compact build, this vehicle is adept at navigating both city streets and scenic country roads. While it may lack the performance bells and whistles of modern vehicles, the A40 Devon’s charm lies in its simplicity and the genuine connection it creates between driver and road.
Cultural Relevance
The A40 Devon exemplifies British automotive heritage, representing an era when cars became attainable for the average citizen. More than just a car, it serves as a narrative of post-war recovery and the beginning of modern automotive design.
Today, car enthusiasts and collectors treasure the A40 Devon for its iconic lines and the nostalgia it evokes. Vintage car shows frequently feature these timeless vehicles, gathering admiration from those who either remember them fondly or appreciate their classic engineering.
A Lasting Legacy
Though production of the A40 Devon ended in the early 1950s, its influence on British automotive culture is still significant. Collectors and restoration experts actively seek out these vehicles to preserve their legacy, ensuring they remain a source of inspiration for future generations.
In conclusion, the 1949 Austin A40 Devon is far more than just a classic automobile; it represents a crucial chapter in history, a reflection of societal advancement, and an emblem of British resilience. For anyone who values classic cars, the A40 Devon is not just a vehicle; it’s an extraordinary treasure waiting to be discovered and cherished.