1100-1300 Series (MG1100 / Austin America)

The MG1100 Sports Sedan was introduced into the American market as an upscale and larger version of the (classic) Mini. It featured the Hydrolastic ("wet") suspension system and was a comfortable and economical "big sister" to the original Mini. It also featured twin carbs, similar to the (classic) Mini Cooper models, on the 1100cc engine. In 1968, the MG1100 evolved into the Austin America, which featured a single-carb1275cc engine. These were often fitted with automatic transmissions, which required more maintenance than most owners gave them, and they developed a reputation for unreliability. The Austin America was withdrawn from the US market after 1971, although similar cars continued in England with both 1100cc and 1275cc engines.

Occasionally, novice enthusiasts will mistake the MG 1100 or Austin America for a Mini, but it is a larger car all around. Other than power unit parts (engine and transmission), very little is interchangeable with the classic Mini.

For the latest in information about the USA 1100-1300 scene, see www.austinamericausa.com. Todd Miller has done a great job with this site, and it is a welcome resource for the 1100-1300 owner.