Austin A55 Cambridge
The first of the 'Farina' Austins, blending Italian style with BMC reliability.
- Power
- 55 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 24.5 s
- Top speed
- 76 mph
- Est. value
- $4k–$16k
About the Austin A55 Cambridge
Introduced in 1959, the Austin A55 Cambridge Mk II marked a radical departure from its rounded predecessors, featuring sharp, finned styling by Pininfarina. It was part of the BMC 'Farina' family, sharing its body shell with the Morris Oxford Series V and more upscale Riley and Wolseley variants. Underneath the Italian skin, it retained the dependable 1.5-litre B-Series engine, now breathing through an SU carburettor for a modest power increase. While performance was leisurely, its spacious cabin and large boot made it a popular choice for families and taxi operators in post-war Britain.
Austin A55 Cambridge specs
The Austin A55 Cambridge produces 55 bhp (41 kW) and 111 Nm (82 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 24.5 seconds and has a top speed of 76 mph (122 km/h).
| Make | Austin |
|---|---|
| Model | A55 Cambridge |
| Trim | Mk II |
| Years | 1959–1961 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Engine | 1.5-litre BMC B-Series inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,489 cc (1.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 55 bhp (41 kW) at 4,350 rpm |
| Torque | 111 Nm (82 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 24.5 s |
| Top speed | 76 mph (122 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,118 kg (2,465 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 49 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 A55 Cambridge worth?
A typical Austin A55 Cambridge is estimated to be worth $4,000 – $16,000 (about £3,000 – £12,000).
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 A55 Cambridge rarity in CarSpot
The Austin A55 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 A55 Cambridge fun facts
- The A55 Mk II was the first Austin to be styled by the Italian design house Pininfarina, starting a trend that would define BMC cars for a decade.
- Despite its Italian looks, the car was built exclusively at Austin's Longbridge plant in Birmingham.
- The rear fins were not just for show; they were a major design trend of the late 1950s, influenced by American 'Space Age' styling.