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Austin Cambridge A55 MK II (1959-61)

Production Total: 150,000
Recorded in UK 2024
Licensed=83 SORN=29

Austin Cambridge A55 MK II (1959-61)

The Austin Cambridge A55 Mark 2, part of the Farina lineup, was produced between 1958 and 1959. While these cars combined practicality with affordability, they did have their share of issues:

Rust: As with most cars of that era, rust is a significant concern. The bodywork can suffer extensively, especially in wheel arches and sills. Surface rust is manageable, but watch out for rotten, soft patches. Wings near the headlamps and lower rear areas are also prone to rust.

Chassis and Body Integrity: A rotten body can be challenging and expensive to repair. Pay close attention to chassis rails, outriggers, and A-posts. Rust in these areas could be terminal for the car. Sagging doors may indicate A-post trouble.

Engine: The A55 Mark 2 featured the tried-and-tested 1.5-litre B-series engine paired with a four-speed manual gearbox. These four-cylinder engines are durable and can last up to 150,000 miles. Minor oil leaks are common, but excessive smoke or whisper-quiet engines may indicate issues.

Gearbox: The four-speed manual gearboxes are robust but have a weak synchromesh on second gear. Check this during your test drive.

Steering and Suspension: While most components are rugged, the Achilles’ heel of the BMC Farinas lies in steering and suspension. Excessive vagueness in the steering can be problematic.

Generations
The **Austin A55 Cambridge** had **two main generations**. The first generation, known as the **A55 Mk I**, was produced from **1957 to 1959**. It featured styling changes at the rear, including a longer and more attractive tail, an enlarged rear window, and a larger boot. The engine produced 51bhp, and transmission options included manual, manual with Borg-Warner overdrive, or Manumatic transmission¹. The second generation, the **A55 Cambridge Mk II**, followed in **1959** and continued until **1961**. It took over directly from the A40/A50/A55 Mk I family and was part of the B-Series Farina cars.

Body Styles/Variants
The **Austin A55 Cambridge** was available in **four primary body styles**:

1. **4-door saloon**: The standard version with a traditional sedan body style.
2. **4-door estate**: Also known as the station wagon, offering more space for cargo.
3. **2-door van**: A commercial variant used for transporting goods.
4. **2-door coupé utility (pickup)**: A practical version combining passenger and cargo space.

Spares
If you're looking for **Austin A55 Cambridge** spare parts in the UK and Ireland, here are some options:

1. **[BMC Farina](https://bmcfarina.com/contents/en-uk/d1.html)**: They offer a variety of original Maxi spares. You can find items like brake pads, filters, suspension components, engine oil, bulbs, and more.

2. **[EasyFindCarParts](https://www.easyfindcarparts.com/uk/parts-austin-a55.htm)**: If you're having difficulty finding specific parts, they can check with their classic Austin trade connections, owners clubs, and known enthusiasts to help you locate what you need.

Remember to check availability and compatibility with your specific A55 Cambridge model.
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Specialists
Here are some specialists in the UK and Ireland who can help with your Austin A55 Cambridge (1955-61):

1. **The Cambridge-Oxford Owners Club**: This club offers support, parts, and advice for owners of Austin Cambridge models.
2. **Honest John Classics**: They provide reviews and information on classic cars, including the Austin A55.
3. **Simon Cars**: A resource for classic car enthusiasts, offering detailed information and support for the Austin A55.

**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 A55.
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Racing
The Austin Cambridge A55 was not widely known for its involvement in major racing events. However, like many classic cars of its era, it did see some action in club racing and local rallying circuits. Enthusiasts often used these cars in smaller, amateur racing events, appreciating their robust design and reliability.

For racing, the Austin Cambridge A55 could be modified in several ways to enhance its performance:

1. **Engine Upgrades**: Swapping the original engine for more powerful options, such as the 1622cc engine or the twin-carb MG unit, was a common modification². These engines provided significantly more horsepower and torque.
2. **Carburetor and Exhaust Systems**: Installing performance carburetors and custom exhaust systems helped improve engine breathing and power output.
3. **Suspension Modifications**: Upgrading the suspension with stiffer springs, shock absorbers, and anti-roll bars improved handling and stability.
4. **Brakes**: Upgrading to disc brakes from the original drum brakes provided better stopping power and reliability¹.
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 A55 into a more competitive vehicle for racing events

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