1948 Austin A125

Austin Sheerline A110 and A125, 1947 to 1954

The Austin Sheerline was introduced in October 1947 at the same time as the Austin Princess. The Sheerline first used a 3,460cc OHV straight-six engine (designated the A110) but this was soon replaced by the standardised 3,993cc, 125bhp OHV engine (A125; it is noted that 'the few produced in 3 1/2-Litre form were converted to 4-litre standard'.)

The Sheerline has a single Stromberg carburettor in comparison to the Princess's three SU units and had traditional semi-razor edge bodywork and separate but enormous Lucas P100 headlamps. The car was very well fitted and furnished, and in October 1949 the range was expanded to include an eight-seater limousine (designated the DM1) which had a huge 11-foot wheelbase. The latetr had a list price of £2,126 and was discontinued in October 1953; the standard A125 Sheerline lasted until August 1954 and had a list price of £1,828.

Today, the Austin Sheerline is a rare car, but their grandeaur and styling makes them popular wedding cars. Parts are available including complete Princess/ Sheerline engines that appear on auction sites, and there are some crossover parts with other Austin models and later Jensens, but new parts will require some hunting for.