Following the introduction of the successful Austin A30 at the 1951 Earls Court Motor Show, the A35 appeared in 1956, signifying the logical development of fitting a larger, more powerful engine. The same monocoque chassis design was used, but the A Series engine grew from 803cc to 948cc, with a claimed 34bhp available. Almost identical in appearance, the A35 featured a larger rear window, revised radiator grille and flashing indicators in place of the earlier cars semaphore units. The A35 retained the same dual type braking system (hydraulic front drums and mechanical rear drums) as the A30.

The new model was tested by Motor magazine in 1956, who recorded a 71 mph top speed and 0-60 mph acceleration time of 30.1 seconds – a marginal, but worthwhile improvement over the A30.

The A35 was available as a 2-door or 4-door saloon; 2-door estate (the ‘Countryman’) and as a 2-door van. Production of the saloon models ended in 1959, the Countryman in 1962 and the van ran until 1968.

This 2-door A35 saloon was first registered, new in Jersey, in July 1959. It passed to its second owner in April the following year and then remained in the same family ownership for the next 60 years. The car has been a cherished family member, always garaged, with just light, local use for much of this time. We acquired the vehicle in 2021.