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Project Austin A40 Somerset ‘Special’

78Z

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I've been a low key member of this site for almost two decades (wow!). I've owned a few British cars along the way; 74 Triumph Spitfire, 69 Reliant Scimitar GTE, 1965 Envoy Epic (Vauxhall Viva), 1978 Triumph Spitfire, 1975 MG B and 1981 Triumph TR8.

I had embarked on a new project that might be of interest with a Austin A40 Somerset. I bought one that was beyond the point of economic restoration. So purists avert your eyes but its not too bad. I am going for a custom car but one that could reasonably fit in with others when new.

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The story of its purchase here:
 
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78Z

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50982209003_1312f263d0_c.jpg



It is/was in pretty terrible condition overall. Pretty much a shell. Lots of mouse debris to clean up as well as get the door working again.


The story of assessing, cleaning it here:
 
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78Z

78Z

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51847571140_554f6e73fa_c.jpg


Let's make it a 'special'.

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The silver bits were from a 90s Honda Civic roof but the rest was re-purposed from the Austin. The ex-roof bit went to the trunk.

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Its now a two door with a business coupe type vibe.

Full story of bodywork done so far here:

 

waltesefalcon

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That looks like a serious project you've undertaken. I look forward to watching it unfold.
 

DrEntropy

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Nothing could be said that hasn't been already said in the comments section. Remarkable, sir!

What's in the plan for a powerplant? A 1275 with a 5-speed would be do-able, methinks.
 
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Engine wise it came with a 1.2L B-series. Not seized amazingly. Missing all the electrical bits. If anyone wants it then its free with a pickup in Alberta. :smile:

I have MG B front and rear suspension bought. I am swapping in the rear now. Then I bought a Toyota 20R engine to swap in. Sort of, kind of B-series like with a little more power and a 5spd box.

51611295119_24258dd868_c.jpg
 

DrEntropy

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Excellent! The 20R is a really stout engine. I was impressed with the size of the crank and big-end bearings. Built to last!
 

drooartz

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Sweet project!
 

JPSmit

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great imagination and great project! keep us posted
 
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a.jpg


Rear suspension with MG B axle was tacked in place. Then I removed the frame from the body to more easily remove the engine/transmission (which is stuck together). Then finish final welding on the rear suspension.
 
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