1975 Austin Apache
No Reserve - Charming example of South African ADO16 with low recorded mileage

Lot details

Registration: PSO162P
Chassis: LK1SMAN15927
Odometer: 33,600 km
Transmission: Manual
MOT: Exempt

• South African market model
• Extremely rare
• Low recorded mileage
• Very original condition
• Runs and drives

The Austin Apache was a compact family car produced in South Africa between 1971 and 1978, developed by Leyland South Africa as a locally styled version of the British Austin/Morris 1100/1300 range. While the mechanical underpinnings and front-wheel-drive layout came from the ADO16 platform—one of Britain’s best-selling cars of the 1960s—the Apache stood out with its distinctive front and rear styling by Italian designer Michelotti, giving it a more formal, three-box saloon shape. It was intended to appeal to South African buyers who preferred traditional notchback sedans over the original hatchback-like profile. Built at the Blackheath plant near Cape Town, the Apache was offered with various trim levels and 1275cc engines, enjoying moderate success until it was replaced by the Leyland Marina in the late 1970s. Today, it’s a rare and quirky reminder of how British car designs were adapted for overseas markets.

 We are delighted to offer this 1975 Austin Apache in white with red vinyl interior. Initially supplied to the South African market, our vendor purchased the car in Cape Town and imported it to the UK in 2016. When purchased it was believed to be a one lady owner that had covered only 30,000 kilometres but, sadly, there is no paperwork to back this up. Since coming to the UK it has formed part of a collection of BMC/British Leyland and has been used regularly. It has attended many shows where its rarity creates a lot of interest – it is apparently one of only 4 in the country.

We are told that the little Austin has never been restored and we think it looks all the better for it. There are some age-related blemishes here and there but all of the correct trim looks to be in place and the brightwork is in decent shape, with the exception of the windscreen surround which is rather discoloured. The interior is particularly well presented. The dark red vinyl seats and door cards contrast beautifully with the white paint and are in lovely condition with no obvious rips or tears. The dash is also very nice and appears to be all original, with a charming period radio in situ. The roof lining is tight and clean, however, there is a little damage to the carpet in the driver’s footwell. Despite the spare wheel being present and correct, the boot remains surprisingly capacious for a small saloon.

The car comes with a V5C, an old MOT, import paperwork with NOVA confirmation, some invoices, handbooks and some period promotional literature. There is also a lovely Road Code of South Africa booklet.

If an Austin 1300 is too commonplace for you and you enjoy chatting to folk at shows, this could be the perfect car. Offered with no reserve, it could also be the perfect starter classic – different enough but with well-proven and simple mechanicals. Come and take a look for yourself at our purpose-built facility in Cheshire.