Austin A40 Farina
The Pininfarina-styled pioneer of the modern hatchback silhouette.
- Power
- 37 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 35.6 s
- Top speed
- 75 mph
- Est. value
- $4k–$12k
About the Austin A40 Farina
Designed by Battista 'Pinin' Farina, the Austin A40 Farina was a landmark in automotive design, introducing the two-box 'hatchback' silhouette to the mass market. While the saloon featured a traditional boot lid, the Countryman variant utilised a split-tailgate that paved the way for modern utility vehicles. Mechanically, it was a refined evolution of the A35, utilizing the dependable A-Series engine and a rear-wheel-drive chassis. By 1962, the 948cc Mark II benefited from a longer wheelbase and a power increase to 37 bhp before being superseded by the 1098cc unit later that year.
Austin A40 Farina specs
The Austin A40 Farina produces 37 bhp (28 kW) and 68 Nm (50 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 35.6 seconds and has a top speed of 75 mph (121 km/h).
| Make | Austin |
|---|---|
| Model | A40 Farina |
| Trim | 948cc |
| Years | 1958–1962 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Engine | 948cc A-Series inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 948 cc (0.9 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 37 bhp (28 kW) at 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 68 Nm (50 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 35.6 s |
| Top speed | 75 mph (121 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 797 kg (1,757 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 46 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 Farina worth?
A typical Austin A40 Farina 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 Farina rarity in CarSpot
The Austin A40 Farina 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 A40 Farina fun facts
- The A40 Farina is often cited as the world's first production hatchback, particularly in its Countryman form with the split-opening rear tailgate.
- Despite its Italian styling, the car was never officially marketed with the 'Farina' name by Austin; the suffix was adopted by the public to distinguish it from earlier A40 models.
- The Mark II version introduced in 1961 featured a 3.5-inch wheelbase stretch to address the cramped rear legroom of the original design.
