A Brief Austin 7 History
In The Beginning
In 1921, the Austin Car Company found itself on the brink of bankruptcy, prompting Sir Herbert Austin to envision a future dominated by a small, affordable car that could rival motorcycles and sidecars.
To the right the 696cc prototype takes on Shelsley Walsh in an impressive 89.8 seconds, leaving a lasting impression on the spectators. The spirit of competition was ingrained in the Austin 7 from its inception.
Star Studded Line Up!
Colin Chapman and Graham Hill took on trials sections together.
Stirling Moss was part of a successful Pre-War Austin 7 Club land speed world record breaking attempt.
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Donald Campbell even set land speed records in his own Austin 7!
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Other names that can trace their roots back to the Austin 7 include Frank Costin (Cosworth), Keith Duckworth (Cosworth), Alec Issigonis (Mini designer), Eric Broadley (Lola) and Bruce Mclaren.
The Austin 7 Twin-Cam
The Austin 7 Twin-Cam was built in an effort to take on the 750cc MG Twin-Cam. It was a complete masterpiece of engineering.
The crankshaft took a month to machine and the car produced 120hp at 8000rpm. The only thing the Twin-Cam engine had in common with the standard engine was the 750cc capacity!
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Watch this incredible period video created at the request of Herbert Austin for promotional services.
