The Austin Motor Company, founded in 1905 in Longbridge, near Birmingham, England, by Herbert Austin, represents one of the most important figures in the history of the British automotive industry. Herbert Austin, an engineer and entrepreneur, began by producing luxury automobiles for an elite clientele, distinguishing himself through his attention to build quality and technical innovation. During the First World War, the company diversified its production, focusing on military vehicles and aircraft engines, contributing significantly to the British war effort. In the 1920s and 1930s, Austin expanded its range with more affordable models, such as the famous 1922 Austin Seven, a compact car that was a huge commercial success and influenced the production of affordable cars both in Britain and abroad, becoming a symbol of popular mobility. Over time, the company merged with other companies in the industry: in 1952, it acquired Morris Motors Limited, creating the British Motor Corporation (BMC), one of Britain's leading automotive giants. In the 1960s and 1970s, under the Austin banner, iconic models were produced such as the Mini, originally developed by BMC, which revolutionized the concept of the compact car and remains an icon of automotive design to this day. Despite its success, Austin faced financial and management difficulties, struggling to compete with foreign automakers and struggling to modernize production. In 1982, the Austin brand was gradually absorbed by the British Leyland group, until the brand's demise in 1987, marking the end of an era. Despite its closure, Austin left a significant legacy in the British automotive industry, with models that marked the evolution of popular cars and British engineering ingenuity, continuing to be remembered for innovation, quality, and distinctive style.