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Launched in late 1959, a year after the saloon, the A40 Countryman was the world’s first compact hatchback as, although the two-box configuration now dominates the world car market, it was then a new idea.
The Countryman used a split two piece tailgate with the rear window panel hinging upward and the metal tailgate opening downward, giving unhindered access to the luggage area and creating a useful seat or picnic table.
Most A40s were two-tone, black being the only monotone scheme, so survivors are rare.
The car modelled has been restored by Hertfordshire based A40 Farina Club Treasurer John Kilby who has owned it since 1987.
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