Road Test

Austin 1800 mk. 2

The new Austin 1800 Mk II, an improved version of the 1800 Mk I, is a much quieter car than the Mk I. The model I tested was an Australian one assembled in New Zealand and it was brand new so that an accurate assessment of its performance could not be obtained. However, it did impress as a good performer. Its road-holding under test was very good and the steering very accurate, if a little heavy at low speed. The servoassisted brakes (self-adjusting discs on the front and drums on the rear) were exceptionally good.

The seating was excellent, very comfortable and fully adjustable. The fascia is well laid out and easy for the driver to read and the gearbox - a very positive one - is in comfortable reach of the driver., There is ample room for parcels and maps under the fascia panel and in the door pockets. The heating and ventilation system gives a wide range of ventilation control. Without the quarter windows in the front, visibility is superb - a great safety feature.

The interior finish was not as good as it could have been. I was very impressed with the tremendous amount of room inside and this was its greatest feature - an excellent family car. It has a spacious boot, but this is spoilt by an inadequate opening lid. The boot has quite a deep well, but the amount of stooping required to store cases at the back, with such a narrow opening lid, is excessive.

Nelson agents: Magnus Motors. Price: About $3133. pverseas funds are not required.