Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Austin 10

The Austin Ten is a compact car produced by the British Austin Motor Company from 1932 to 1947, featuring a 1,125 cc side-valve inline-four engine that delivered 21 bhp and drove the rear wheels via a four-speed gearbox. Known also as the 10/4 due to its 10 taxable horsepower rating, it was constructed on a cross-braced chassis with pressed-steel bodywork and became Austin's best-selling model of the 1930s, with total production reaching approximately 290,000 units. Offered in multiple body styles—including the , Open Road tourer, Colwyn cabriolet, and later variants like the Ripley sports model () and saloon ()—the Austin Ten evolved through several mechanical upgrades, such as synchromesh on higher gears in , 12-volt electrical systems in , Girling rod brakes in , and a semi-unitary body structure in 1939. These enhancements improved its performance, with top speeds reaching up to 60 mph in later models, while maintaining its reputation for reliability and affordability in the pre- and post-war eras. During , production shifted to utility versions like s, pick-ups, and vans, resulting in 53,000 units built for wartime needs.

Overview and Initial Design

Launch and Development

The Austin 10 was launched on 19 April 1932 by the as a compact family automobile positioned between the smaller Austin Seven and the larger, recently updated Austin Twelve. This new model addressed the growing demand for affordable mid-sized vehicles suitable for everyday use, featuring a straightforward design that emphasized practicality over innovation. Development of the Austin 10 occurred during the early stages of economic recovery in Britain following the 1929 Wall Street Crash and the ensuing Great Depression, which had severely impacted global markets including the UK automotive sector. The Austin Motor Company adopted a conservative engineering approach, prioritizing reliability and cost-efficiency to appeal to budget-conscious families amid lingering financial uncertainty. This strategy reflected broader industry trends toward durable, no-frills transport as consumers sought stable alternatives to luxury models during the 1930s slowdown. Initial pricing positioned the Austin 10 as an accessible option, with the basic four-door retailing at £155 and enhanced Sunshine or De-Luxe variants at £168. Over its production run from 1932 to 1947, approximately 290,000 units were manufactured, establishing it as Austin's best-selling model of the decade and a cornerstone of the company's commercial success in the pre-war era.

Core Design Features

The Austin 10 featured a pressed body mounted on a ladder , providing a robust and straightforward suited to . The incorporated cross-bracing for added rigidity and was dipped 2.75 inches between the axles to lower the overall height and enhance stability on the road. This design prioritized durability and practicality over advanced engineering innovations, reflecting the economic constraints of the early . In terms of dimensions, the original 1932 model had a of 7 feet 9 inches, an overall of 11 feet 7 inches, a width of 4 feet 6 inches, a height of 5 feet 4 inches, and a curb weight of 1,736 pounds, making it a compact yet spacious . The styling was notably conservative, characterized by a vertical shell and simple, unadorned lines that emphasized functionality and reliability rather than aesthetic flair. This approach aligned with Austin's philosophy of producing affordable, long-lasting vehicles for the mass market. The initial suspension system consisted of half-elliptic springs at both the front and rear, complemented by frictional shock absorbers to manage road imperfections effectively. It was equipped with a four-speed manual transmission for versatile gear selection.

Technical Specifications

Engine and Drivetrain

The Austin 10 featured a 1,125 cc inline-four side-valve engine, delivering 21 bhp at 2,600 rpm in its initial configuration upon launch in 1932. This cast-iron block unit used a wet sump lubrication system and side-mounted valves, providing reliable but modest performance suited to the era's small family car segment. Power was transmitted to the rear wheels via an open propeller shaft and a live rear axle, with the engine's design emphasizing durability over high output. In 1934, a sports-oriented variant known as the Ripley introduced an uprated version of the same 1,125 cc engine, tuned with modifications such as a higher-lift to achieve 30 , enabling a top speed of 65 mph; this configuration was available only until 1936. The standard engine received breathing improvements, including a downdraught carburettor and revised manifolds; however, output remained at 21 until later upgrades. By 1939, further refinements to the carburettor, manifolds, and camshaft profile elevated power to 32 at 4,000 rpm, enhancing overall without altering the . The incorporated a from the outset, with an early single-plate for smooth engagement. Synchromesh gearing was added progressively: the top two ratios (third and fourth) gained in early 1934 to reduce gear during shifts, followed by the addition of synchromesh to second gear by August of that year, improving usability for everyday driving. First gear and reverse remained non-synchronized throughout the model's run, requiring double-clutching techniques for precise changes. An electrical system upgrade in 1934 replaced the original six-volt setup with a 12-volt configuration, incorporating a and improved wiring for better starting reliability and accessory support, such as enhanced . The fuel system utilized a pump to draw petrol from a 6-gallon rear-mounted , feeding a 26 VA or 30 VE series carburettor with adjustable jets (typically a 75 main jet and 60 pilot jet in early models) for metering; this setup supported fuel economy around 35 . Top speed progressed from an initial 53 mph in 1932 models to 60 mph following 1937 updates to the and gearing, reflecting cumulative enhancements in power delivery and reduced aerodynamic drag.

Chassis and Suspension

The Austin 10 employed a conventional ladder frame chassis made of pressed steel with cross-bracing for structural integrity, designed to dip 2.75 inches between the axles to lower the overall height and improve stability. Introduced in 1932, this chassis provided a solid foundation for the vehicle's compact saloon body. In 1934, reinforcements were added to enhance rigidity, addressing early concerns about torsional stiffness under load. The ladder design persisted through production until 1939, after which a shift to semi-unitary construction integrated the body shell and floorpan, yielding reduced weight and greater overall stiffness for postwar models. Braking was handled by mechanical drum brakes on all four wheels from the model's launch, utilizing 7-inch drums operated via cables and rods for reliable stopping power in an era dominated by such systems. In 1937, the system was upgraded to Girling mechanical brakes with rod operation and wedge-and-roller shoe expansion, offering improved and over the original setup. The suspension system relied on half-elliptic s at both front and rear axles, shackled and mounted on silent-bloc rubber bushes to minimize road noise and vibrations. Initial models from featured frictional shock absorbers for , which were upgraded to Luvax hydraulic dampers by , providing smoother ride quality while preserving the durable leaf spring arrangement. Steering utilized a worm-and-sector in early production, evolving to a cam gear variable-ratio system by for more responsive handling at different speeds. Track widths measured 3 feet 9 inches front and approximately 3 feet 9.5 inches rear in the initial 1932–1934 models, widening slightly to 3 feet 11 inches front and 4 feet rear in later unitary-body variants to support enhanced stability.

Body Styles and Variants

Saloon Models

The Austin 10 models formed the core of the lineup, offering enclosed four-door passenger cars designed for family use with a focus on practicality and affordability. These variants evolved from basic constructions to more streamlined designs, sharing a 1,125 sidevalve four-cylinder engine delivering approximately 20-21 across the range. Production emphasized pressed-steel bodies on a cross-braced , prioritizing durability over in early iterations. The initial four-door saloon, introduced in April 1932 and produced until 1935, featured a basic pressed-steel body with vertical windows and a square outline for straightforward comfort. Priced at £155 for the standard model and £168 for the De Luxe with an optional sunshine roof, it included cable-operated brakes and 6V electrics, achieving a top speed of 55 mph and fuel economy up to 34 . This entry-level design sold modestly without the roof but gained popularity in De Luxe form, with over 19,000 units of the latter produced in 1932 alone. In 1934, the saloon emerged as a option with improved , including a protruding to enclose the spare wheel and a body-colored for a more refined appearance. Updated in 1935 with hydraulic shock absorbers replacing friction types, it offered synchromesh on second and third gears, indicators, and 12V electrics on a strengthened . Priced at £158 for the fixed-head version or £172 10s with a sliding roof, the Lichfield catered to buyers seeking modest enhancements over the basic model without major redesigns. The six-light saloon, available from January to August 1936, introduced a more stylish six-window configuration—three windows per side, including one behind the rear door—for enhanced visibility and interior spaciousness. Seven inches longer than the , it incorporated an '' sloping rear profile, a flush-fitting sunshine roof, armrests, and Girling rod-operated with 16-inch steel disc wheels. Priced at £178, this model represented a brief but notable progression toward modern aesthetics before broader streamlining. From 1937 to 1947, the saloon became the dominant variant, featuring a forward-positioned passenger compartment and a longer hood to accommodate the engine's slight repositioning four inches ahead for better weight distribution. With a streamlined body, rounded grille, and aluminum cylinder head added in 1938, it transitioned to a semi-unitary construction in 1939, boosting structural integrity. During , saloons were produced as utility vehicles, contributing to a total of approximately 53,000 Austin 10 units—including saloons, pick-ups, and vans—built for wartime needs. Postwar production of the saloon resumed in 1945 with minor styling tweaks, such as updated trim for export markets, maintaining the 1,141 cc introduced pre-war for improved up to 60 . These adjustments ensured continued appeal in sales until October 1947, when it was replaced by the A40 and Dorset models.

Open-Top and Sports Models

The Austin 10 lineup expanded in to include open-top variants designed for leisurely motoring, featuring fabric roofs and wind-up windscreens that enhanced the open-air experience while providing basic weather protection. These tourers catered to recreational drivers seeking affordable convertibles, with the two-seat model offering compact agility and the four-seat version accommodating families on outings; both were produced from to 1939 and priced between £145 and £160, making them accessible alternatives to enclosed s. The Colwyn cabriolet, introduced in 1933 and available until 1937, represented an early option with a folding , four doors for practicality, and an integrated for luggage storage, appealing to buyers desiring a blend of openness and everyday utility. This model was built on the standard but emphasized styling influences, with production focused on markets favoring elegant drop-top designs. Succeeding the Colwyn, the cabriolet debuted in 1937 as part of the range update and continued until 1939, incorporating a forward-positioned for improved and a more streamlined appearance that aligned with evolving aesthetics; it was discontinued after 1939 amid shifting production priorities. The retained the folding hood mechanism but featured refined lines and enhanced cabin comfort, positioning it as a sophisticated choice for open-top enthusiasts. For performance-oriented buyers, the Ripley sports tourer arrived in 1934 and was produced through 1936, boasting a low-slung body with lowered front doors, no running boards, and wire wheels for a sportier profile; its tuned engine, featuring improved breathing via a , delivered 30 and a top speed of 65 mph. Limited to just 120 units, the Ripley targeted enthusiasts valuing dynamic handling and exclusivity over mass-market appeal. The variant, introduced in and built until , adopted an open pick-up style with a cab for light commercial duties, proving versatile for rural tasks and small deliveries during wartime constraints. Postwar production emphasized exports, particularly to markets like , where its durable open design supported agricultural and utility needs in demanding conditions.

Production Evolution

1934-1935 Facelift

In 1934, the Austin 10 received mechanical enhancements aimed at improving reliability and drivability. The was reinforced for greater strength, addressing early concerns about structural integrity under load, while the electrical system had been upgraded to 12-volt electrics in 1933, replacing the previous 6-volt setup to support more robust starting and lighting performance. These changes contributed to enhanced overall dependability, making the car more appealing for everyday use. A notable styling update arrived in August 1934, when the was redesigned with a body-colored that gave it a sloped, more modern appearance compared to chrome surround. At the same time, the four-speed gearbox gained synchromesh on the top two gears, facilitating smoother shifts and reducing driver effort during gear changes. This refresh also introduced model names to the lineup, including the four-door saloon and the Ripley open sports tourer, which offered distinct body styles while sharing the updated mechanicals. Further refinements in 1935 focused on ride quality, with hydraulic shock absorbers replacing the original friction-type units across the range, particularly on the saloon. This upgrade provided better damping and improved handling over uneven surfaces, resulting in a more comfortable and stable driving experience. Contemporary road tests praised these suspension changes for noticeable gains in composure and reduced body roll, especially when compared to the initial 1932 model's firmer ride. These facelift modifications boosted the Austin 10's market reception, sustaining its status as one of Austin's top sellers through the mid-1930s by addressing user feedback on refinement and style without major overhauls.

1936-1937 Body Updates

In 1936, Austin introduced the saloon as a mid-life update to the Ten lineup, featuring a distinctive six-light configuration with three windows per side, including one behind the rear door, to enhance interior spaciousness and visibility. This model incorporated an '' rear window design, characterized by a smooth, uninterrupted roofline sweeping toward the rear, which was a fashionable stylistic choice at the time and allowed for deeper rear seating with added armrests. The forward-shifted cabin created an illusion of a longer , improving passenger comfort without altering the underlying dimensions. By December 1936, the Cambridge saloon marked a significant stylistic evolution, with the passenger compartment positioned further forward to provide greater rear legroom and a more modern, elongated profile that aligned with emerging trends in streamlined automotive design. It retained the six-light layout but integrated headlamps into faired front wings for a sleeker appearance, emphasizing flowing lines over the boxier precedents while maintaining the model's economical appeal. This update boosted interior space without major mechanical changes, positioning the Cambridge as Austin's best-selling pre-war saloon. Launched alongside the in late 1936—often dated to 1937 in production records—the Conway cabriolet adopted matching aesthetics in an open-top format, utilizing a four-light design for simplicity and elegance while preserving the forward cabin shift for enhanced occupant space. Its top complemented the streamlined bodywork, offering a versatile alternative to fixed-roof variants amid a market increasingly favoring aerodynamic forms from competitors like and . These body updates reflected a broader production shift toward streamlined saloons and cabriolets, prioritizing visual modernity and practicality to sustain sales through the late , though mechanical enhancements like Girling brakes were introduced concurrently for better performance.

Later Redesigns and Construction

1939-1940 Semi-Unitary Changes

In May 1939, the Austin 10 received a major redesign featuring semi-unitary construction, where the body shell integrated with the floorpan to form a more cohesive structure, as developed by Argentine-born designer "Dick" Burzi, who had joined Austin from Lancia in 1929. This approach enhanced overall efficiency without compromising durability. Concurrently, the —a 1,125 side-valve four-cylinder unit—was upgraded to deliver 32 at 4,000 rpm, achieved through an improved , revised , downdraught carburettor, and updated manifolds and for better breathing. These modifications provided smoother power delivery and marginal gains in acceleration while maintaining the four-speed gearbox. The exterior was restyled with a sloping, rounded grille inspired by designs, integrated fenders for a sleeker profile, and a rear-hinged "alligator" for easier access, alongside the adoption of 16-inch wheels. Cabriolet variants were discontinued in favor of saloon and tourer bodies, aligning with evolving market preferences for enclosed models. By 1940, full production shifted to this semi-unitary format amid preparations for wartime contingencies, resulting in a top speed of 60 and improved handling. The design's greater torsional rigidity and fuel economy—around 35 —positioned the Austin 10 for sustained relevance into the postwar era.

1945-1947 Postwar Adjustments

Following the end of , civilian production of the Austin 10 resumed in 1945, focusing primarily on saloons and vehicles destined for export markets. Amid the post-war financial crisis in , nearly all units were allocated for overseas shipment to generate foreign currency, with the first example arriving in the United States in July 1945. variants, including vans, reappeared with a slightly enlarged 1,237 cc side-valve engine to meet commercial demands, while saloons retained the familiar 1,125 cc unit. Minor styling adjustments restored select pre-war elements, such as limited chrome trim on grilles and bumpers, though these were simplified and subdued due to persistent material shortages under postwar austerity measures. The continued to employ the semi-unitary refined in the late , providing a stable platform for these export-oriented builds without major structural alterations. Production of the Austin 10 concluded in October 1947, when it was superseded by the more modern across saloon, , and utility lines. The model served as reliable, low-cost transportation in recovering economies, particularly through exports to nations like and , where it supported essential mobility needs in and . The Austin 10's emphasis on economical engineering and durable simplicity left a lasting imprint on subsequent Austin designs in the budget car segment, informing the practical ethos of models like the A40 series.

Wartime and Military Use

World War II Production

During , production of the Austin 10 continued from 1939 to 1945, with approximately 53,000 saloons and utility vehicles manufactured despite strict of materials and fuel, primarily to support essential services such as transport for civil authorities and emergency responders. These vehicles were adapted for wartime conditions, emphasizing reliability and economy over luxury, with output sustained at reduced rates to meet civilian needs while the broader shifted toward military demands. Utility variants, including and pick-ups, featured reinforced for heavier loads and blackout-compliant lighting and paint schemes to comply with air raid regulations, making them suitable for nighttime civilian transport in essential sectors like and . These adaptations allowed the vehicles to serve in roles critical to the on the domestic front, such as supplying goods and personnel under restricted conditions. Military versions, known as Tilly utilities, were also derived from the same platform but allocated separately for armed forces use. The engine remained the 1,125 cc side-valve four-cylinder unit, preserving the vehicle's basic performance for practical duties. At Austin's in , which employed over 32,000 workers and prioritized military vehicles, aircraft components, and munitions—producing up to 500 military vehicles weekly—the Austin 10 line was maintained at lower volumes to balance civilian requirements without halting essential output. Following the war's end in 1945, production transitioned toward exports as domestic demand declined due to economic constraints and pent-up orders for newer models, with the first shipments to the occurring in July 1945 to capitalize on international markets. Saloon production ceased in October 1947, marking the model's phase-out in favor of postwar designs like the A40.

Military Operators and Variants

The primary variant of the Austin 10 was the "Tilly," short for Truck, Light Infantry, which adapted the pre-war civilian into an open pick-up with a canvas cover for light transport and duties. This design drew briefly from the civilian utility base but was specifically modified for wartime needs. Operators of the Austin 10 Tilly included the for general liaison roles, the Royal for airfield support tasks, and other branches of the , with additional use by units. Key modifications to the Tilly encompassed shrouded headlamps for blackout compliance, a reinforced to handle rough terrain and overloading, a 38-liter fuel tank for extended range, and a tuned 1,237 engine producing 29 , enabling a top speed of approximately 40-50 mph depending on load. Production involved converting thousands of civilian stock vehicles into Tillies, with Austin manufacturing over 29,000 units during for deployment in theaters such as and , including operations at , the , D-Day, and the . Following the war, many surplus Austin 10 Tillies were sold to civilians, contributing to the postwar market for affordable utility vehicles and remaining popular among enthusiasts for restoration today.

References

  1. [1]
    Austin: Ten - Graces Guide
    Jul 23, 2020 · The 1,125-cc four-cylinder side-valve engine producing 21 bhp drove the rear wheels through a four-speed gearbox and open drive shaft to a live ...Missing: specs | Show results with:specs
  2. [2]
    Austin Ten Market - CLASSIC.COM
    The Austin Ten is a series of compact cars that was introduced in 1932. The Ten was also known as the Ten-Four, due to its 10 taxable horsep
  3. [3]
    Dating Tens - Austin Ten Drivers Club
    September 1932 - Magna hub wheels and 18 x 4-50 tyres are most obvious changes from early cars. Open tourer and van models introduced from this period vans with ...
  4. [4]
    Stock market crash of 1929 | Summary, Causes, & Facts - Britannica
    Oct 3, 2025 · Stock market crash of 1929, a sharp decline in US stock market values in 1929 that contributed to the Great Depression of the 1930s.Missing: Austin | Show results with:Austin
  5. [5]
    Austin 10-4
    Saloon Fixed Head Engine 1125 cc 20bhp at 2,600 rpm Length 11ft 2ins Width 4ft 6ins Height 5ft 4ins Wheel Base 7ft 9ins Track front 3ft 9ins rear 3ft 9ins Road ...
  6. [6]
    Austin 10 - Unique Cars and Parts
    Conservatively designed, the Austin 10 used a pressed steel body built on a cross braced chassis. ... dipping the chassis 2.75 inches (70mm) between each axle.
  7. [7]
    1932 Austin 10/4 specifications - Carfolio.com
    View complete technical specifications for 1932 Austin 10/4. Includes performance data, fuel economy, dimensions, engine details, and more.Missing: original styling
  8. [8]
    AYD56 - Austin Ten - specification
    Total capacity 1,125cc. R.A.C. rating 9.996 h.p.; b.h.p. 20 at 2,600 rpm. The pistons are of low expansion aluminium alloy, the valves are all on the near side, ...
  9. [9]
    1936 Austin 10 Specifications & Dimensions - conceptcarz.com
    Inline 4. Displacement : 1125 cc | 68.7 cu in. | 1.1 L. Power : 21 BHP (15.456 KW). Transmission: 4 Manual. Production Figures. 10 Production (1932-1947) : ...Missing: Ten | Show results with:Ten
  10. [10]
    1936 Austin 10/4 - FantomWorks
    Sep 22, 2017 · It was launched on 19 April 1932 and was Austin's best-selling car in the 1930s and continued in production, with upgrades, until 1947. It ...Missing: source | Show results with:source
  11. [11]
    Austin 10: detailed specifications, performance and economy data
    dimensions & weights. Wheelbase, 2380 mm, 93.7 inches. Track/tread (front), 1180 mm, 46.5 inches. Track/tread (rear), 1180 mm, 46.5 inches. Length, 3785 mm, 149 ...
  12. [12]
    Gearbox numbers - Austin Ten Drivers Club
    Oct 14, 2021 · It is possible that SYN6769A is the original gearbox for the car. If so it will have synchromesh only on 3rd and Top and not on 2nd.Missing: transmission | Show results with:transmission
  13. [13]
    1935 Austin Ten Lichfield, Carburettor
    The 1935 carburettor had a seized choke, a 75 main jet, 60 pilot jet, 55 compensating jet, and 19mm choke. A 21mm choke version had 85 main, 60 pilot, 55 ...Missing: details | Show results with:details
  14. [14]
    Austin 10/4 Saloon 1932-34 specifications - Classic Car Portraits
    Dimensions & Weight Wheelbase: 7ft 9in. Track - front: 3ft 9in. Track - rear: 3ft 9.2in. Overall length: 11ft 7in. Overall width: 4ft 5.7in. Overall height: 5ft ...
  15. [15]
    Austin 10 Saloon GRQ 1939-40 classic car portrait print
    See specifications below illustration. Page 168. Austin 10 Saloon GRQ & GSI 1939-40/1944-47 specifications. Engine 4 Cylinder in line. Bore: 2.499in / 63.5mm<|control11|><|separator|>
  16. [16]
    Austin Ten 1932-1947 - Simon Cars
    From 1934 the Tens were named, 'Lichfield' the saloon, 'Colwyn' for the cabriolet, 'Clifton' for the 2-seat tourer. In late 1936 a new 'streamloned' body was ...Missing: history | Show results with:history
  17. [17]
  18. [18]
    10 HP - Austin Ten Drivers Club
    The Austin Ten, introduced in 1932, was a popular 4-door car with a 4-cyl engine, 4-speed gearbox, and was considered suitable for ladies to drive.
  19. [19]
    AUSTIN 10/4
    ### Summary of Austin 10/4 (1930s)
  20. [20]
    Austin 10/4 Conway Cabriolet - Brightwells Classic Cars
    In 1937 Austin gave the car a major makeover, bringing its styling in line with the times. The Cambridge as it was then called looked almost streamlined and was ...
  21. [21]
    1938 Austin A10 roadster utility - RRSSII - Shannons Club
    A factory built roadster utility (convertible). Sold new in 1939, by Winterbottom in Perth WA.Missing: 1938-1947 | Show results with:1938-1947<|control11|><|separator|>
  22. [22]
    Car Road Tests 1910 - 1940 - Austin Memories
    The frame is cross braced the braking system is mechanical cables; rods and cables, the four brakes are applied by pedal or hand lever; and the chassis ...
  23. [23]
  24. [24]
    Austin Ten Series II data and specifications catalogue
    Catalogue of specifications of Austin Ten Series II, all models, production years and versions in automobile-catalog.
  25. [25]
    AUSTIN 10/4 (1939-40) - Classic & Sports Car
    New May, 1939, with semi-unitary structure incorporating integral floor, American-type rounded grille, alligator bonnet, also downdraught carburation and a ...
  26. [26]
    AUSTIN TEN-FOUR REVIEW - Classic Cars For Sale
    Austin Ten-FOUR. Engine 1125cc/4-cyl/side-valve. Power (bhp@rpm) 32bhp@4000rpm. Torque (lb ft@rpm) Not quoted. Top speed 62mph. 0-60mph 40 sec+. Consumption ...
  27. [27]
    War Years 1939-45 - Austin Memories
    The Civil and Nation Fire Service were equipped with over 5,000 Austin 2 ton lorries of various body styles. Industrial engines of which about 20,000 were ...
  28. [28]
    A look at the 'Tilly' a WWII trooper - Militarytrader
    Jan 30, 2024 · The Austin Ten had slightly larger cylinders fitted to increase the engine capacity to 1237cc, and the Morris Ten had the SU carburettor ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  29. [29]
    The Tilly Register
    The Tilly was a British wartime truck. The Tilly Register brings owners together, logs vehicles, and shares experiences. It was founded in 1996.
  30. [30]
    Austin 10 HP Series G/YG - Danish Army Vehicles Homepage
    Horsepower: 29 at 3.600 rpm. Transmission: 4-speed, type G3-150. Electrical system: 12 volt, negative ground. Brakes: Mechanical (Girling).