Year: 1953

Make: Austin

Model: A40 Countryman

Donated to Museum by: Family of Sid Laturnus

History: This 1953 Austin 840 Devon Countryman was built for the North American market and sold by the well known Vancouver dealership Fred Deeley Motors located on West Broadway. Established in 1917 to sell British cars. The Austins and other British cars were shipped in custom built crates, offloaded from ship dockside in Vancouver and taken to Deeley’s service department for pre delivery prep. The cars were crated on their hubs with the wheels packed inside the cars.

 This Countryman is thought to have had first duty with the BC Forest Service as a vehicle for timber cruisers and Ministry of forest inspectors. It was purchased at an estate sale in 1973 and placed into storage in a South Surrey greenhouse.

The Austin was bought by Sid Laturnus in 1988. After a complete seven year frame off restoration, it received insurance and license registration to return to the road in 1995. The engine was rebuilt. The Austin features original interior of factory paint colour.

 The vehicle appears now is it probably did in 1953 the Austin was driven regularly and is completely stock aside from a different rear end ratio in the differential to make the Austin achieve 100 km/h and to be more drivable on the highway.
We are lucky to have this on display for everyone to enjoy!

 The Austin a 40 Devon Countryman was first manufactured in 1947 and continued to 1956. Varied styles were made including compact / small family car 2 door sedans, 4 door sedans, convertible and station wagon. Commercial versions offered were a panel vans and pickup.

Specifications:
Engine 73.1 cubic inch 1.2 liter inline 4 cylinder gasoline horsepower 40 horsepower at 4200 RPM
Transmission: 4 speed manual Length 159.4 inches 4000 48 millimeters
Width: 46.5 inches 1638 millimeters wheelbase 92.5 inches 2355 mm
Curb weight: 2310 pounds or 1048 KG.