Austin 1300 GT (1969-71)

The **Morris 1300 GT**, part of the BMC 1100 and 1300 (ADO16) family, had some notable characteristics and common issues:

1. **Rust**: Like many British cars of that era, the 1300 GT suffered from rust. It's essential to inspect for corrosion, especially in vulnerable areas like the sills, wheel arches, and floor panels¹.
2. **Spares Availability**: Unfortunately, the spares situation for the 1100/1300 series isn't as good as that for the Mini².
3. **Smooth Driving Experience**: On the positive side, the 1300 GT offered a smooth driving experience, thanks to its front-wheel drive, interconnected Hydrolastic suspension, and lively A-Series engines¹.

Remember, while it's a joy to drive, keeping an eye on rust and sourcing spares can be challenges!
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Variants
The **Morris 1300** was part of the BMC 1100 and 1300 (ADO16) family, which included several variants. Here are the key ones:

1. **Morris 1300 Mk2**: This was a revised version of the original 1300, introduced from October 1967³.
2. **Morris 1300GT**: A sportier variant, the 1300GT offered desirable features and performance. It was available after 1969⁴.

These models shared front-wheel drive, interconnected Hydrolastic suspension, and lively A-Series engines. While great to drive, they did suffer from rust like many British cars of that era.
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Engines
The **Morris 1100 and 1300** (also known as ADO16) featured lively A-Series engines. Here are the details:

1. **Morris 1100**:
- Engine: **1098 cc A-Series** (from 1962).
- Transmission: All-synchro gearbox (from 1968).

2. **Morris 1300**:
- Engine: **1275 cc A-Series** (from 1967).
- Steering and handling were close to Mini levels of fun.

These cars were cleverly designed and consistently topped British sales charts, but like many British saloons of the time, they suffered from rust.
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Spares
Certainly! If you're looking for **Morris 1300 GT** spares in the UK and Ireland, here are some options:

1. **ANG Classic Car Parts**:
- ANG Classic Car Parts offers high-quality new and used parts, including spares for classic cars like the Morris 1300 GT¹.
- You can explore their selection online or contact them for availability.

2. **Classic Engine Parts**:
- Classic Engine Parts provides bearings, bushings, and other engine components for the Morris 1300 GT (1969 to 1971)².
- Check their website for specific parts and availability.

3. **Morris Register Spares**:
- While primarily focused on models designed before 1940, Morris Register Spares stocks maintenance and overhaul parts for popular models, including the Morris 1300 GT³.
- They mainly offer engine, transmission, electrical, and brake parts.

Remember, maintaining your Morris 1300 GT with quality spares ensures its longevity and keeps it running smoothly!
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Specialists
Here are some specialists in the UK and Ireland who can help with your Austin Maxi:

1. **The Cambridge-Oxford Owners Club**: This club offers support, parts, and advice for owners of various Austin models, including the 1300 GT.
2. **Honest John Classics**: They provide reviews and information on classic cars, including the Austin 1300 GT.
3. **Classic Cars for Sale UK**: A marketplace for buyers and traders of classic cars, where you can find parts and services for the Austin 1300 GT.

**NORTHERN IRELAND AUSTIN SPECIALIST LIST**

Austin specialist mechanics in County Antrim, Northern Ireland:
1. McMillan Specialist Cars: They offer a wide range of services including maintenance, repairs, and full restorations. They are located at Unit 10, Plasketts Close, Kilbegs Road, Antrim BT41 4NN. You can contact them at 028 9335 49111.
2. Nufinish: With over 18 years of experience, they handle smart cosmetic and light damage repairs. They are located at Unit 24, Antrim Business Park, Randalstown Road, Antrim BT41 4LH. Their contact number is 028 9446 60142.
3. D S Autos: This garage specialises in all makes and models of car repairs, including servicing, diagnostics, and more. They are based at 67 Church St, Antrim BT41 4BE. You can reach them at 028 9446 66623.

Austin Specialists in County Armagh Northern Ireland
Here are a few options for Austin specialist mechanics in County Armagh, Northern Ireland:
1. McMullan Auto Services: They offer a range of services including car servicing, maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs. They are located at 85A Fergort Rd, Armagh BT60 3DN. You can contact them at 028 3753 17661.
2. Elite Motor Performance: This garage provides various auto repair services and is based in Armagh2.
3. Pittstop: Another option in Armagh, offering comprehensive garage services2.
If you need more details or have specific requirements, feel free to let me know!

Austin Specialist in County Down Northern Ireland
John Chatham Cars
• Location: Wellinghouse Farm, Moorhouse Lane, Hallen, Bristol BS10 7RT
• Services: Specializes in restoring, treating, and maintaining Austin Healeys and other classic British sports cars from the '50s, '60s, and '70s. They offer classic car restoration, servicing, and race preparation.
• Contact: You can reach them at 0117 950 1836. More information is available on their website.
Merlin Classic Cars
• Location: The Ropery, Unit 1C Redmoor Lane, Stockport SK22 3JL
• Services: Renowned for their restoration, maintenance, race preparation, and sales of all Austin Healey marques. They have over 30 years of experience in restoring classic and vintage vehicles.
• Contact: You can contact them at 01663 746499. More details can be found on their website.

Austin mechanic specialist in County Fermanagh Northern Ireland
1. Lochside Garages: While they are primarily Vauxhall dealers, they offer comprehensive servicing and repairs for various car brands. They are located at 22 Tempo Road, Enniskillen BT74 6HR. You can contact them at 028 6632 4366.
2. Enniskillen Motor Services: They provide a range of vehicle services, including diagnostics, repairs, and maintenance. They are based in Enniskillen.
3. Austin mechanic specialist in County Londonderry Northern Ireland

Austin specialist mechanics in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland:
1. Lloyd Cooke Motors Ltd: They provide expert vehicle maintenance and car bodywork repairs. Located at 53 Lismacarol Road, Londonderry BT47 3LZ. You can contact them at 028 7130 2100.
2. S M C Motors: Offering a range of garage services throughout County Londonderry.
3. Satnams Garage: Another reliable option for various auto repair services in Londonderry.

Austin specialist mechanics in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland:
1. KG Truck & Plant: Based in Dungannon, they offer mobile mechanics for plant machinery and hydraulic repairs. They provide 24/7 on-site services and have over 20 years of experience. You can contact them at 07771 904 505.
2. NR Trucks Ltd: Located at 70 Armagh Road, Dungannon, they offer a range of services for commercial vehicles. You can reach them at 028 8778 9775.
3. Tyrone Diesel Systems: Specialising in the testing and repair of diesel fuel systems, they are the only fully-authorised Bosch Diesel Centre in Northern Ireland. They are based in Omagh

These specialists should be able to assist you with parts, advice, and support for your Austin 1300 GT.
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Racing
The Austin 1300 GT did see some action in racing, particularly in club racing and local motorsport events. While it wasn't a major player in high-profile racing series, enthusiasts appreciated its sporty characteristics and often modified it for competitive use.

The 1300 GT's twin-carburettor engine and improved suspension made it a popular choice for those looking to race a small, nimble car.

Enthusiasts made several modifications to the Austin 1300 GT to enhance its performance for racing. Here are some common upgrades:

1. **Engine Tuning**: The 1275cc A-series engine was often tuned for more power. This included fitting performance carburetors, such as twin SU carburetors, and upgrading the camshaft for better airflow and increased horsepower.
2. **Exhaust Systems**: Installing a free-flowing exhaust system helped improve engine efficiency and power output.
3. **Suspension Upgrades**: The Hydrolastic suspension was often modified or replaced with stiffer springs and shock absorbers to improve handling and reduce body roll.
4. **Brakes**: Upgrading to disc brakes from the original drum brakes provided better stopping power and reliability.
5. **Weight Reduction**: Removing unnecessary interior components and using lightweight materials helped reduce the car's overall weight, improving acceleration and handling.
6. **Tires and Wheels**: Fitting wider, performance-oriented tires and alloy wheels improved grip and handling.

These modifications helped transform the Austin 1300 GT into a more competitive vehicle for racing events.