Austin A90 Atlantic
Reviewed by Unique Cars and Parts
Our Rating: 4
Introduction
The A90 Atlantic was first built in
prototype form in 1947 being the first British car to be designed for the U.S market. Upon its launch in 1948, it became an overnight sensation.
This all-new British convertible with modern, full-width styling, bulbous and full front wings formed a rakish and bold profile.
This car, with its power top and door glasses was seen as a somewhat unheard of in Britain during 1948, with a switch controlling the up and down movement of the top in around 22 seconds. Other inclusions were the Ecko radio, adjustable
steering and heating.
The speed of this car was really impressive being one of only a handful that could top 145 km/h, and easily the cheapest.
It could manage 0 - 96 km/h in around 16.6 seconds and even though petrol was still rationed at this time, 25 mpg could still be attained.
But sales of this vehicle never really took off in America, where 6 and 8 cylinder vehicles were more popular. Despite that, an Atlantic broke 63 American stock car records over 7 days, in Indianapolis.
Production of the Atlantic was short-lived, despite Austin slashing $1,000 from its price in 1949 and, in 1951, the introduction of a fixed-head saloon version with hydraulic
brakes and a lower axle ratio.
But the convertible ceased to be produced in 1951. The saloon struggled until 1952, ousted by the BMC merger of that year.
Although it is not known exactly how many survive, it is most likey in the order of around 150 cars, with about 70 in Australia, made up of both convertibles and hardtops (coupes).
