The Austin A90 Atlantic stands as a remarkable piece of automotive history, as one of the first post-war cars designed from the ground up by Austin. Its story is a fascinating blend of engineering, international influence, and the quest to meet the demands of an ever-evolving market.
In the post-war era, the automotive landscape was changing rapidly. For Austin, a brand with a rich history, it was time to embrace the future. The Atlantic emerged as a testament to this new direction. What's particularly intriguing is that this car's design was, in part, influenced by a 1946 Pininfarina-bodied Alfa Romeo cabriolet.
This Alfa Romeo, a work of art on wheels, found its way to the Longbridge factory in 1947. Soon after its arrival, the light blue 16hp sports prototype made its debut in the experimental department and on the nearby roads around the factory. This fortunate encounter played a role in shaping the Atlantic's distinctive appearance.
In a time when the British government urged industries to "export or die," the Atlantic was purposefully designed to cater to North American tastes. Austin recognized that securing a place in the international market, especially in North America, required a car that could captivate buyers overseas.
The Atlantic embodied contemporary design elements. It featured a wraparound windscreen, a style that was ahead of its time. The front wings bore twin 'Flying A' hood ornaments and gracefully flowed down to a rounded tail with wheel spats. What truly set it apart was the centrally mounted third headlight, integrated into a letter-box style air intake grille
Luxury was at the heart of the Atlantic. It boasted the then-unheard-of feature of hydraulically powered windows, a testament to its forward-thinking design. Owners had the option to equip their Atlantic with EKCO or HMV Autocrat radios. As a final touch of innovation, the center section of the three-piece, wraparound rear window could be lowered into the trunk for additional ventilation, controlled by a remote winder above the front windscreen.
The Austin A90 Atlantic was unlike anything British car enthusiasts had ever seen, let alone from a conservative and mainstream manufacturer like Austin. While it made a significant impression in the UK, it faced a different reception in the United States.
In the USA, where V8 muscle cars from Detroit reigned supreme, the Atlantic struggled, with only a few hundred sold. Consequently, it remained a rare sight on American roads.
Today, after several decades, this exquisite car has become a true rarity. Estimates suggest that fewer than 60 units survive. This specific Austin A90 Atlantic stands as an outstanding example. It underwent a meticulous restoration from 1999, with an investment approaching £70,000. Its condition is near perfect, a testament to the dedication of its owners.
This particular Austin A90 Atlantic has been part of a car collection for the past 14 years. It exudes a stately yet stylish presence. The car's rich history is well-documented, with several boxes filled with records and its tools and handbooks are complete.
In summary, the Austin A90 Atlantic is not just a classic car; it's a unique and exquisite testament to post-war design and engineering, a rare gem that continues to capture the imagination of all who encounter it.
