Locally-assembled Brit
If you feel that British steel is for you, then this might be an economical entry into the classic scene. A 1958 Singer Gazelle SIII, this is essentially a rebadged version of a Hillman Minx.
It comes from a time when the brand was under the stewardship of the giant Rootes Group, and there were significant tax incentives for companies like this to export cars CKD form and have them locally-assembled.
Locally, the Rootes Australia handled a variety of British brands and eventually merged with the Australian end of Chrysler.
Powering the car is a 1.5lt four-cylinder pushrod engine, in this case hooked up to a four-speed manual. Brakes are drum all round, with independent front suspension and a live rear axle.
At the time you could have these in four body styles: sedan, convertible, estate and van. All but the convertible were screwed together in Port Melbourne.
This example is located in Melbourne and is being offered by the Healey Factory at $14,500.