Introduced in 1958, this was the first BMC model styled by the Italian designer Pininfarina, after whom it was named.

The A40 replaced the A35 and was a milestone in automotive design, pioneering the modern two-box car with no boot.

Mechanically the car was very conventional, derived from the A35 with the same engine. It was well received at its launch in 1958 and in 1959 a Countryman or estate version was offered. The car stayed in production until 1967.

This car has only had two owners from new and covered 36,000 miles before it was acquired by the Trust in 1981.