Austin A40 Cambridge
The first Austin Cambridge: a modern unibody pioneer for the British middle class.
- Power
- 42 bhp
- Top speed
- 68 mph
- Est. value
- $4k–$12k
About the Austin A40 Cambridge
Launched in 1954 to replace the bulbous A40 Somerset, the A40 Cambridge introduced a modern, square-rigged unibody design by Dick Burzi. While the A50 variant used a 1.5-litre engine, the A40 retained a 1.2-litre version of the new BMC B-Series unit, making it the entry-level choice for the range. It was technically advanced for its time with independent front suspension and a full-width grille, though it was sparsely trimmed compared to its larger-engined siblings. Today, the A40 Cambridge is a rare sight compared to the later Farina-styled models, valued by collectors for its role in establishing the long-running Cambridge lineage.
Austin A40 Cambridge specs
The Austin A40 Cambridge produces 42 bhp (31 kW) and 79 Nm (58 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 68 mph (110 km/h).
| Make | Austin |
|---|---|
| Model | A40 Cambridge |
| Trim | 1.2 |
| Years | 1954–1956 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 30,666 built |
| Engine | 1.2-litre B-Series inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,197 cc (1.2 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 42 bhp (31 kW) at 4,500 rpm |
| Torque | 79 Nm (58 lb-ft) |
| Top speed | 68 mph (110 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,045 kg (2,304 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 40 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 A40 Cambridge worth?
A typical Austin A40 Cambridge is estimated to be worth $3,500 – $12,000 (about £2,600 – £8,900).
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 A40 Cambridge rarity in CarSpot
The Austin A40 Cambridge is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 40 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 A40 Cambridge fun facts
- The A40 Cambridge was initially intended to be sold as a two-door saloon, but almost all production examples were four-door models.
- Its distinctive ribbed rear wings earned it the nickname 'cow hips' among contemporary critics.
- The 1.2-litre engine in the A40 was effectively an under-bored version of the 1.5-litre B-Series engine found in the A50.