Austin A50 Cambridge
The first Austin to feature the legendary B-Series engine.
- Power
- 50 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 28.8 s
- Top speed
- 73 mph
- Est. value
- $4k–$10k
About the Austin A50 Cambridge
Launched in 1954 to replace the A40 Somerset, the A50 Cambridge introduced modern unibody construction and the debut of the 1.5-litre B-Series engine. While its styling was conservative, it offered a significant step forward in refinement and motorway capability for the British middle class. The A50 is particularly noted for its 'cow hips' rear wing styling and was the basis for Nissan's early licensed production in Japan. Today, it is a charming entry-level classic valued for its mechanical simplicity and historical importance as the progenitor of a long-running BMC lineage.
Austin A50 Cambridge specs
The Austin A50 Cambridge produces 50 bhp (37 kW) and 100 Nm (74 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 28.8 seconds and has a top speed of 73 mph (118 km/h).
| Make | Austin |
|---|---|
| Model | A50 Cambridge |
| Trim | 1.5 |
| Years | 1954–1957 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Engine | 1.5-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,489 cc (1.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 50 bhp (37 kW) at 4,400 rpm |
| Torque | 100 Nm (74 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 28.8 s |
| Top speed | 73 mph (118 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,067 kg (2,352 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 47 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 A50 Cambridge worth?
A typical Austin A50 Cambridge is estimated to be worth $3,500 – $10,000 (about £2,600 – £7,500).
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 A50 Cambridge rarity in CarSpot
The Austin A50 Cambridge 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 A50 Cambridge fun facts
- The A50 Cambridge was built under licence by Nissan in Japan between 1955 and 1959, helping to establish the Japanese car industry.
- Early models featured friction-held drop-glass windows rather than a wind-up mechanism, though this was quickly changed due to customer complaints.
- The 1.5-litre B-Series engine introduced in this car would go on to power iconic vehicles like the MGA and the Nash Metropolitan.