Austin A40 Somerset
The 'Transatlantic' Austin that brought American curves to post-war Britain.
- Power
- 42 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 36.6 s
- Top speed
- 70 mph
- Est. value
- $5k–$28k
About the Austin A40 Somerset
The Austin A40 Somerset was the final new Austin model launched with a separate chassis before the British Motor Corporation era shifted to monocoque designs. Its bulbous 'Transatlantic' styling was a deliberate attempt to appeal to the American export market, mimicking the larger A70 Hereford. While its 1.2-litre B-Series engine provided modest performance, the Somerset was praised for its reliability and comfortable leather interior. It remains a popular entry-level classic, often cited by enthusiasts as the last 'real' Austin due to its traditional construction.
Austin A40 Somerset specs
The Austin A40 Somerset produces 42 bhp (31 kW) and 84 Nm (62 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 36.6 seconds and has a top speed of 70 mph (113 km/h).
| Make | Austin |
|---|---|
| Model | A40 Somerset |
| Trim | 1.2 |
| Years | 1952–1954 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Original price | About $1,900 when new |
| Engine | 1.2-litre inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,200 cc (1.2 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 42 bhp (31 kW) at 4,500 rpm |
| Torque | 84 Nm (62 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 36.6 s |
| Top speed | 70 mph (113 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,012 kg (2,231 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 42 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 Somerset worth?
A typical Austin A40 Somerset is estimated to be worth $4,500 – $28,000 (about £3,400 – £21,000).
Its original price when new was about $1,900.
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 Somerset rarity in CarSpot
The Austin A40 Somerset 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 Somerset fun facts
- The A40 Somerset was the first Austin model to be built under licence by Nissan in Japan, starting in 1953.
- A special 'Jubilee' edition was produced in 1953 to celebrate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, featuring unique paint colours like Balmoral Blue.
- The Somerset featured a column-mounted gear change, a design choice intended to allow for a full-width front bench seat.