Lot 117: Austin A70 Hereford

Introduced in 1950 the A70 Hereford replaced the earlier A70 Hampshire. The A70 Hereford had a smoother, more bulbous body with a distinctive grille design and a more curvaceous tail end. As before an Estate version and an attractive Convertible became available during the 3 year production run. Little had changed, mechanically, from the Hampshire, apart from the addition of fully hydraulic brakes, the Hereford still shared the Hampshire's separate chassis layout and Austin also based its 1952 A40 Somerset on the Hereford, it looked like a miniature version and even shared the same doors. The Hereford range sold in relatively small numbers until it was replaced, by A90 range, in 1954. This late example of a Hereford saloon, is said to have been in the previous owners hands for 22 years, until it was acquired by the vendor. Purchased by the vendor in Wales, the car was driven to East Grinstead, via the M4 and M25 and is said to have performed exceptionally well, maintaining excellent oil pressure and normal temperature throughout the journey. Described as being an excellent example, the car is finished in black and has red leather interior. It is equipped with the 2200cc, straight four engine, 4-speed manual transmission and carries and MoT through to March 2010.