Austin 1800 ADO17
The 'Landcrab': Alec Issigonis's masterclass in interior packaging and structural rigidity.
- Power
- 86 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 14.4 s
- Top speed
- 93 mph
- Est. value
- $5k–$14k
About the Austin 1800 ADO17
The Austin 1800, codenamed ADO17, was the third front-wheel-drive design from Sir Alec Issigonis, following the Mini and the 1100. Despite its ungainly 'Landcrab' proportions, it offered unprecedented interior space for its length and a body shell of immense torsional stiffness. The 1.8-litre B-Series engine, shared with the MGB, provided dependable if unhurried performance, while the Hydrolastic suspension delivered a remarkably smooth ride. Though it never achieved the sales success of its smaller siblings, it remains a cult classic valued for its engineering depth and quirky character.
Austin 1800 ADO17 specs
The Austin 1800 ADO17 produces 86 bhp (64 kW) and 137 Nm (101 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 14.4 seconds and has a top speed of 93 mph (150 km/h).
| Make | Austin |
|---|---|
| Model | 1800 |
| Generation | ADO17 |
| Trim | 1.8 |
| Years | 1964–1975 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Engine | 1.8-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,798 cc (1.8 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 86 bhp (64 kW) at 5,300 rpm |
| Torque | 137 Nm (101 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 14.4 s |
| Top speed | 93 mph (150 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,160 kg (2,557 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 74 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is an Austin 1800 ADO17 worth?
A typical Austin 1800 ADO17 is estimated to be worth $4,500 – $14,000 (about £3,400 – £10,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Austin 1800 ADO17 rarity in CarSpot
The Austin 1800 ADO17 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 25 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Austin 1800 ADO17 fun facts
- The ADO17 body was so strong that it was famously used by the BMC works team for grueling long-distance rallies like the London-Sydney Marathon.
- Its nickname 'Landcrab' was coined by the press and rally crews due to its exceptional width and the way it appeared to scuttle across the road.
- The car's doors were so well-designed and expensive to tool that they were reused on the later Austin Maxi and the flagship Austin 3-Litre.