Here is a very unique piece, a modified 1948 Austin A40 Pick-Up Truck. The appearance remains mostly consistent with what one would expect from a post-war model but it is much more modern in the cabin, in the engine bay and underneath. The powertrain is by General Motors, circa 1985, making generous power while the Austin body rides on a mid-‘70s Toyota frame and suspension.
A substantial modification relates to the truck’s ride height – lower than stock. The body has been channeled 6 to 8 inches and dropped below the frame. As a result, the cabin is more compact and the truck is recommended for someone not taller than 5’10” or heavier than 200 lbs. Seller did relate that the truck is both safe and reliable and in fact, some years ago his 7-1/2 months pregnant daughter drove the truck for an extended period while her car was being repaired. Owner has been the custodian of the truck for 10 years, having purchased it from a local owner of approximately 2 years, who had finished the build. It was previously about 90% completed by the previous owner in Quebec.

The truck’s appearance has been modernized with matte black paint, this paint job was overseen by the aforementioned previous owner who carried out the lion’s share of the restoration. Despite being 12+ years old, the paint retains a good quality finish with a couple of minor blemishes on the driver’s side. During his 10-year custodianship, the seller estimates that he has driven the Austin approximately 5,000 miles, enjoying it mostly as a hobby truck as well as frequenting cruise nights and other car shows. The eye-catching original grille with Austin badging is in place and its chrome shines, same for the consistent vent work on the sides. The grille is topped by a striking hood ornament featuring the Austin winged “A” in profile. High-mount chrome exterior mirrors are also of the period and unique for today. The boot tilts open clamshell-style, is crafted from fibreglass and latches to the fenders on both sides. The bed is also a custom piece and has a latching cover which opens and remains ajar thanks to the gas-filled lift supports. With the shaved door handles, doors can be opened with a key when windows are closed, Aluminum wheel discs continue the period look and they are circled by a staggered set of blackwalls with plenty of tread – Nexen N5000s in the front measure 185/60R14, BF Goodrich Radial T/As in the rear are 235/60R14. Chromed dual exhaust tips are a suitable complement for the raw burble of the powerful GM engine, the branded tailgate and custom rear bumper are the other notable features out back.

Inside is a snug package, all custom. Stewart Warner instrumentation is a functional package – the 160 MPH speedometer is flanked by oil pressure and temperature gauges beyond the steering wheel, with fuel gauge and voltmeter in the centre stack over a floating 8000 RPM tachometer. The instrumentation fronts a black dashboard with textured stainless accents and glove box door. In between the stainless is artistic airbrushing, yielding a custom look. The three-spoke steering wheel lends a sporting touch; console includes power window switches, a chromed skull shift knob and chromed emergency brake handle, with cupholders mounted on the front. Cloth bucket seats and carpet are grey. There is also a fire extinguisher mounted between the seats. There is a modern Clarion head unit overhead, with speakers mounted in each door, which also house map pockets, as well as a subwoofer. The Clarion is pictured in the gallery so as to illustrate the removable faceplate feature.

The frame of this rig and its suspension were sourced from a 1976 Toyota. The engine is a 1985 Chevrolet 4.3 litre V6, bored 30 over and with an estimated 300 horsepower. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via an automatic 1985 700R4 transmission with overdrive. This Austin is equipped with manual steering and power brakes and the underside is clean. Engine was tuned in 2022, a new DieHard battery was also installed this year. Other mechanical specs are listed in bullet-form below. While current condition is quite good as shown, seller notes that the truck needs a new headlight and a new front indicator light; he otherwise thinks it will pass Ontario safety.

Other mechanical details:
Gear drive and comp. cam.
Hypereutectic pistons.
Roller rockers.
ARP rod bolts.
Planed and decked.
Bronze valve guides.
Edelbrock 500 Intake with 500 CFM carburetor.
Shift Kit, 2400 stall.
Ron Francis Lock up, Genie shifter.
Dual exhaust.

So, we do have a unique piece on offer here. This 1948 Austin A40 Pick-Up Truck – Modified is available from its owner of 10 years with two sets of keys and mounted fire extinguisher in Burlington, Ontario.