Re: Who owns an "AUSTIN AMERICA" out there?
The company model code-name is "ADO16"
They were sold in other markets as the Austin 1300 and the MG 1100, Austin 1100 and Morris 1100 were very similar. There's also Riley or Wolsley versions and even a deluxe Princess version.
They are a neat little car but have two main problems.
The 4-speed automatic transmission and the hydrolastic suspension.
With the automatic trans, if it is driveable, be sure to warm it up fully and then drive it. The forward drive clutch packs often fail, but you will not see this until the trans is warm. Usually, the reverse gear will still work fine but it will slip in forward (and make a funny "graunch" sound as well). These transmissions share the motor oil with the engine...not a great idea (so there is no automatic trans fluid in them). If they do not get frequent oil changes, they fail. The best solution (in my opinion) is to swap in a 4-speed manual trans. With the stick shift, these are a wonderful little cars. The 1275 engine is a great little engine. Finding a stick shift trans and flywheel in the US could be tough but not impossible. They are fairly common in Canada and the UK, so you could get one if you are willing to pay shipping. The classic Mini manual trans might work but would require a different final drive ratio (Americas have 12" wheels and most classic Minis have 10").
The hyrodelastic suspension usually needs to be recharged every so often or the car will "sag" like a lowrider. If you can find someone to do this, it not a complicated process......sort of like recharging air conditioning. I have heard that folks convert them to simple coil-over shocks and do away with the hydro suspension, but I have no info on this.
You can find some more info
~HERE~