Austin FX4
The quintessential London black cab and a global symbol of British urban life.
- Power
- 60 bhp
- Top speed
- 70 mph
- Est. value
- $8k–$22k
About the Austin FX4
The Austin FX4 is the definitive London taxi, serving as the backbone of the city's transport for nearly four decades. Introduced in 1958, the 1980 model represents the final years of Austin-branded production before the rights were fully transferred to Carbodies. It is famous for its exceptional 25-foot turning circle, designed specifically to navigate the tight roundabout at the Savoy Hotel. While performance is modest, its separate chassis construction and robust 2.5-litre diesel engine made it a durable workhorse capable of clocking hundreds of thousands of miles.
Austin FX4 specs
The Austin FX4 produces 60 bhp (45 kW) and 147 Nm (108 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 70 mph (113 km/h).
| Make | Austin |
|---|---|
| Model | FX4 |
| Trim | 2.5 Diesel |
| Years | 1971–1982 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 75,000 built |
| Engine | 2.5-litre inline-four diesel |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,520 cc (2.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 60 bhp (45 kW) at 3,500 rpm |
| Torque | 147 Nm (108 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 4,000 rpm |
| Top speed | 70 mph (113 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,600 kg (3,527 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 38 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 FX4 worth?
A typical Austin FX4 is estimated to be worth $7,800 – $22,000 (about £5,800 – £16,000).
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 FX4 rarity in CarSpot
The Austin FX4 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 31 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 FX4 fun facts
- The FX4's 25-foot turning circle is a legal requirement for London taxis to ensure they can perform a U-turn in narrow streets.
- Early models featured roof-mounted indicators known as 'bunny ears', though these were replaced by conventional wing-mounted lights by 1980.
- The design was so successful that its basic silhouette remained in production through various manufacturers until 1997.
