SORRY NOW SOLD – SIMILAR WANTED

A rare surviving Austin Metro Automatic with an incredible 16,464 miles from new.

EQUIPMENT
All steel unitary construction, laminated windscreen, twin door mirrors, locking concealed fuel filler, grey moulded bumpers, side rubbing strip, styled halogen headlamps, twin rear fog lamps, loadspace lamp, front head restraints, rear parcel shelf, header rail console with digital clock, floor mounted centre console, heated rear window, variable-delay intermittent wipers, rear wash/wipe, cigar lighter, push-button pre-selector LW/MW radio. Dealer options; Rear mudflaps.

EXTERIOR
Finished in factory original colour Champagne Beige, (Code LMK), this fantastic and rare edition Metro Automatic has covered a remarkable 16,464 miles from new and is preserved in superb condition. The paintwork boasts a wonderful polished shine and uniform finish, and all panels are straight and damage free. With many Metro’s having succumbed to the harshness of daily use and the elements in the 1980’s, it is a true delight to see original features such as factory spot welds to the rear arches as well as supplying Austin-Rover dealer fitted number plates, rear screen sticker and tax disc holder. Only very close scrutiny will reveal light markings and touched in scratches, utterly insignificant and barely worthy of mention. The front and rear light clusters and even both side repeaters and rear fog lamps are factory fitment with the Austin logo to the lenses. Once a common sight on our roads, this fantastic example really does stir up nostalgia.

INTERIOR
The Metro Automatic was factory built to the same specification as the HLE model and as such featured higher levels of equipment to include, variable-delay intermittent wipers, header rail console with digital clock and Plain and Moonstripe Tweed trim with padded front head restraints. A testament to the incredible low mileage, the seats in the Flint colour scheme, (Code CNC), remain in pristine condition with no damage or wear whatsoever. All interior trim is as new and could almost convince you that you are in a 1985 Austin Rover showroom! Low mileage indicators include prominent veins to the steering wheel and factory fresh controls and switchgear. The push-button pre-selector LW/MW radio works perfectly but digital clock is not functioning. Reminiscent of a far simpler motoring era, this highly collectable Metro is truly delightful.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
The legendary and time proven A-Series engine of 1275cc displacement needs no introduction. Producing an ample 62bhp, this sedate Metro offers a relaxed driving experience with a top speed of 92mph and 0-60 in 15.5 seconds. The engine bay is spotlessly clean and factory plates, stickers, panel stampings, and protective wax visible. Factory fitted with an oil cooler as standard on the Automatic model, the four-speed automatic transmission with manual overide facility operates exactly as it should. Even the special, directional light filter which prevents the illuminated gear selector markings from reflecting in the windscreen at night remains effectual and fully functional. Ideal for the classic show circuit and every day retro motoring!

WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES
Factory standard pressed steel TD wheels remain fitted and are shod in premium brand 165/65 R315 TD tyres which include original fitment, whereby renewal prior to regular use would be a wise safety precaution. The dual line servo-assisted brakes with ventilated front discs pull the car up quickly and safely.

HISTORY FILE
Registered new on 1st October 1985 by Austin Rover Main Dealers and Leycare approved outlet, Brooks of Martock, this cherished Metro has covered an exceptionally low 16,464 miles from new! An Austin Rover cars sales brochure from 1985 with accessories booklet and price list tells you how a brand-new Metro Automatic would have cost £5,916.46 at the time.

The history file is huge and contains a large folder of neatly filed service invoices as well as every MOT certificate dating back to the early 1990’s. The extensive service history fully verifies the mileage and offers an insight to the fastidious maintenance this car has enjoyed. With Metro’s fast becoming a symbol of the era and increasingly collectable, this pampered example is without question of the best in existence.

HPI Clear.

SORRY NOW SOLD – SIMILAR WANTED

Possibly the best existing Austin Metro City 310 Van with just 17,156 miles.

EQUIPMENT
All steel unitary construction, anti-burst locks, grey rolled steel bumpers, zinc primed body, hydragas suspension, integral front spoiler, locking fuel filler, twin black door mirrors, rear wash/wipe, laminated windscreen, twin sun visors with docket pockets, high lift tailgate, heated rear window, brake pad warning indicator, trip recorder. Van features; Full steel loadspace bulkhead with welded mesh upper section, steel loadfloor extension, load space side panel protection, loadspace lamp, 310kg payload. Factory options; Vinyl seat facings.

EXTERIOR
This virtually extinct Metro City 310 Van is preserved to an incredible standard and the factory applied White Diamond paintwork, (Code NMN), is amazing with only very faint imperfections visible. Worthy of mention are a tiny ding to the driver’s door and one to the offside rear arch. The underside is free from heavy application of underseal to allow inspection of the vehicles structural integrity. All trim sections are pristine and the 310 boot lid badge remains fitted along with supplying dealer number plates, tax disc holder and rear screen sticker. The rear load area is unbelievably clean for an unrestored example and the boot floor hatch conceals the spare wheel along with the original jack, wheel brace and tyre lever all still in the Styrofoam moulding! With just three devoted keepers from new, this has to be the luckiest Metro van ever made!

INTERIOR
Wonderfully sparse yet functional, this really is everything you need and nothing else! The seats are trimmed in factory optional Flint Vinyl, (Code LCG), with matching door cards and vinyl floor coverings. It is hard to justify describing the cabin space as anything other than perfect with absolutely no wear to the seats or flooring. The fascia, headlining and switchgear are all flawless, and what little equipment there is operates exactly as it should. The exceptionally low mileage is proven with the steering wheel and gear knob retaining all texture and definition. Guaranteed to stir up fond nostalgia, it is impossible not to sit in the driver’s seat and smile.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
The legendary and time proven A-plus engine of 1275cc displacement needs no introduction with robust simple mechanics and excellent parts availability. Producing a spirited 62bhp and 72 lb/ft of torque, this spritely Metro can hold its own in modern traffic and is tremendous fun with Mini like road manners. The clean engine bay displays factory plates and stickers, and stampings to the factory panels are clearly visible. The four speed all synchromesh gearbox delivers light and exact changes with the feel of a very low mileage example.

WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES
The standard steel wheels in superb order remain with the car and are shod in the factory supplied and commercial vehicle specific Michelin TDXE 160/65 R315 tyres. Whilst excellent tread remains, renewal prior to regular use is advisable. The dual circuit hydraulic brake system with circuit failure monitor pull the car up quickly and safely.

HISTORY FILE
A well-known example within the Metro Owners Club and the subject of a main feature in the August 2015 edition of Classic Van and Pick-up magazine, this Metro Van is very special. Supplied new by Austin Rover Main Dealers, Lex Rover of Cheltenham, this 1989/1990 model year example was kept at the dealership until being registered on 6th July 1992. The first owner, an elderly gentleman Mr Harry Chadwick, purchased the van having driven commercial vehicles throughout his working life and preferring them to cars. Mr Chadwick kept the van, always dry stored, for over 20 years at which point the second keeper, Mr Simeon Akister, purchased it to remind him of his student days driving one whilst working for a hotel in the Lake District. Sold by KGF Classic Cars to an opticians who used the vehicle sparingly for advertising purposes this vehicle is now ready for the next lucky custodian.

The history file is comprehensive with the original Lex Rover plastic wallet containing all original handbooks, guides and point of sale literature, even down to the salesman’s business cards and the welcome letters from Rover. A large collection of invoices and old MOT certificates provide just an insight to just how well cared for this van is. Exceptionally rare in any condition, this wonderful Metro 310 Van is unrepeatable in such preserved state and represents a delightful slice of motoring history along with legends such as the Morris Mini Van and Morris Pick-up.

HPI Clear.

SORRY NOW SOLD – SIMILAR WANTED

A splendid Austin Seven Basic Mini Saloon in show condition.

EQUIPMENT
All steel unitary construction, double-dip headlamps with foot operated dip switch, hinged rear number plate, sliding windows, one sun visor, floor mounted starter switch, central instrument dial, oil pressure warning lamp, drivers seat adjustable,  wide door pockets, flashing indicator stalk, fresh air heater, front ashtray.

EXTERIOR
This stunning very early Austin Mini is finished in hard wearing Farina Grey, (Code GR11), and is virtually flawless with an impressive glossy shine.  Being the Basic model no bright inserts are found in the window rubbers and correct features such as the body colour petrol filler cap and rear number plate lamp in black remain fitted.  Considered by some as running prototypes the early production models had distinguishing features such as the non-recessed glass apertures and flat sills.  These cars were 50kg lighter than the standard production car.  The wavy chrome grill and correct boot script are in excellent order.  Wheel arch apertures are incredibly clean and the underside is body coloured.  Cuteness in abundance!

INTERIOR
Being the Basic model the seats are finished hard wearing Grey Woven Cloth that have been meticulously recreated by Hunters of Brora Ltd and look absolutely fabulous.  The cream Austin speedo is beautifully preserved and sits fully functional on the painted board dash lining.  Unique features are still fitted such as the flat switch panel, centre hinged sun visor and the rear view mirror with a long slender stem and pinch bracket to hold the glass finished in crackle black.  Thick pile grey carpeting and matching woven cloth door cards have been professionally tailored and replace the rubber mats..  The floor mounted starter button remains in situ.  Simply divine.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
A water cooled, overhead-valve four-cylinder engine mounted transversely has a cubic capacity of 848cc and produces 34bhp.  The engine is whisper quiet and is still the factory supplied unit with matching numbers.  Early production car features such as the metal oil filler cap and metal filler caps for the master cylinders are still fitted.  The correct DR2 wiper motor and heater take off tap accessed from the engine bay on top of the head is fitted. The cylinder head has been converted to run on unleaded.  The engine bay has been detailed for bonnet-up showing and creating a ‘wow’ factor  The original 4-speed gearbox works well and is operated via the correct straight gear stick as fitted only to early cars.

WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES
Pristine JBW Minilight alloy wheels with new Falken 145/80 R10 tyres have been fitted. Braking to all four wheels is hydraulically operated by a pendant pedal with two leading shoes at the front.  The handbrake lever is the correct type with the chrome button.

HISTORY FILE
Built on the 18th November 1959 this example is one of the most iconic of all the Minis as it was built within the first three months of the public launch date of the 26th August 1959 as confirmed by the Heritage Motor Centre.  These early built cars possess a uniqueness with individual build differences before full scale production, standardisation and the ‘facelift’ in October 1960.  With only three owners from new this example has a fascinating history all catalogued in the history file.  The first owner enjoyed the car for six years before a Mr Mucklejohn purchased the car for his son, Ian, in 1965.  Only used by Ian for two years before being hit head-on by a Ford Cortina.  Fortunately Ian suffered only minor injuries and even kept the newspaper extract dated the 10th February 1967 where the Cortina driver was fined £10 with a licence endorsement!  A Front End number of FE68802 confirms dating of August 1960 to the body after the repairs.  While the vehicle was being repaired Ian purchased a Hillman Imp which he preferred to drive so once the Mini was returned it lay idle and unused.  In 1999 after 32 years of being off the road Ian decided to have the vehicle restored to ‘as new’ condition with an invoice presented for the privilege of £14,726.90.  After 50 years of ownership KGF Classic Cars were delighted to sell the car to the third keeper, Mr Robin Guest who has now decided to sell in order to concentrate on his primary passion, motorcycles.

A history file comprising of wonderful period artefacts including letters, photos and period literature are included along with a certificate from the 1959 Mini Register & Mini Magazine identifying this example as a surviving 1959 Mini and thus formed part of the Mini 50th anniversary celebrations.

HPI Clear.

SORRY NOW SOLD – SIMILAR WANTED

A dependable Austin Mini 850 Light Van ready for show and promotion

EQUIPMENT
Two rear wide opening doors with safety glass windows and automatic check rods, sliding side windows, curved safety glass windscreen, driver door mirror, double dipping headlamps, washable headlining to cab, large door pockets, full width facia shelf, interior roof light, electric horn, sun visor, recirculatory heater, wiper switch, mixture control.  Factory option: Passenger seat.

EXTERIOR
This nippy Austin  Mini Van is finished in Glacier White and boasts a vibrant shine which is the perfect back drop for promotional work.  This example is structurally perfect having been subject to a restoration with photos to reveal the detailed progress.  The bumpers are in excellent order as is the original metal grill and Mini badge but small blemishes can be seen.  The rubbers and lenses are all intact and present very well but the front screen has wiper marks seen at certain angles.  The engine bay is clean and suitable for bonnet up display but not factory correct.  A wonderful example, perfect for classic car shows or promotional advertising.

INTERIOR
The standard black upholstery seats have been retrimmed along with the rest of the interior.  Replacement door cards and facia trim along with tailor fitted black carpeting throughout including the load area from Newton Commercial adds a touch of luxury to a basic environment!  The Bakerlite steering wheel with Mini badge is well preserved.  The small instrument speedometer with warning lights all function correctly. An iconic motoring delight in every respect.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
The water cooled, overhead-valve four-cylinder engine mounted transversely has a cubic capacity of 848cc and produces 34bhp.  Simple mechanics and instant parts availability allow low cost motoring or even home servicing!  The 4-speed gearbox with synchromesh operates well and a new clutch has recently been fitted.  Thoroughly useable and ready classic motoring enjoyment!

WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES
Pressed steel disc wheels with 4-stud fixing are dressed in classic Mini hubcaps and shod in steel belted 145 SR10 tyres.  The spare wheel stowed in a special compartment between the vehicle floor and load space is present.  Braking to all four wheels is hydraulically operated by a pendant pedal with two leading shoes at the front, basic and short of modern standards.

HISTORY FILE
This Mini 850 Van has a certified copy of the factory record from The British Motor Industry Heritage Trust confirming a build date of the 6th April 1973 for the home market and was subsequently registered on the 1st June 1973.  Still a matching numbers example it was selected by Mr Phillips as the foundation to create his classic commercial van to which countless hours of hard work and expense were invested.  Photos in the history file along with numerous invoices all laminated for longevity help substantiate the integrity of this Mini Van being offered.  Used purely for enjoyment and classic car shows a new project has prompted the decision to find an appreciative owner.

HPI Clear.

SORRY NOW SOLD – SIMILAR WANTED

A remarkable very early Austin Mini Metro with 5,823 miles from new.

EQUIPMENT
All steel unitary construction, zinc primed body, hydragas suspension, twin fog lamps, mud flaps, rear wash/wipe, laminated windscreen, sun visors with ticket pocket and vanity mirror, soft-feel steering wheel, trip mileage recorder, front spoiler, high lift tailgate, split rear seats, companion boxes, lidded glovebox, brake pad warning indicator, heated rear window.  Factory Options: Halogen headlamps, side rubbing strips, push button radio, slotted headrests, cigar lighter.

EXTERIOR
Finished in the extremely rare factory original colour Peridot Metallic this fantastic early production Mini Metro is every inch a rare surviving delight and boasts a bright finish to the paintwork.  Having covered such few miles all trim, lights, glass and rubbers are in fabulous order and rare Mini Metro badging is still fitted to the tailgate as per early production examples.  A minor depression to the rear bumper is barely visible.  Once a common sight on our roads, this fantastic example really does stir up nostalgia and with such low miles covered represents a wonderful opportunity to the collector and enthusiast alike.

INTERIOR
The delicate interior of this Mini Metro is completely original and in perfect preserved condition.  The upholstery in Savannah is completely free from wear and still retains its fullness, as do the matching brown carpets protected by genuine Mini Metro rubber floor mats.   All functions including the optional push button LW/MW radio operate fully.  A genuine tax disc from 1983 remains in the screen.  A truly remarkable interior in a superb preserved state.  A British car to beat the world!

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
The legendary and time proven A-plus engine of 998cc displacement needs no introduction     with robust simple mechanics and excellent parts availability.  Producing an ample 45bhp and 53 lb/ft of torque, this spritely Metro can hold its own in modern traffic and is tremendous fun with Mini like road manners.  The four speed hydraulically operated all synchromesh gearbox delivers light and exact changes with the characteristic Metro sound.

WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES
Five standard 12” refurbished steel wheels remain with the car and are shod in the factory supplied Goodyear Gran Prix 135 SR12 tyres with excellent tread remaining.  The dual circuit hydraulic brake system with circuit failure monitor pull the car up quickly and safely.

HISTORY FILE
A well-known example within the Metro Owners Club with plenty of stand appearances, including the NEC Classic Car Show, this delightful car is used to the limelight!  Launched on the 8th October 1980 this prime example was built at the Longbridge Plant on the 13th February 1981 as a batch of 53 destined for the Belgium market.  Never registered in its intended destination it was registered in the UK in April 1982.  Recently discovered by Metro enthusiast, Ian Kimpton after 31 years of careful garage storage and subsequently sold by KGF Classic Cars this rare car is now available once more due to the current owners ill health.  In his care for one year it has covered just 1000 miles and been subject to a full service in that time. A fantastic opportunity to acquire what is now a very desirable, early, low mileage British Leyland iconic product.

HPI clear.

SORRY NOW SOLD – SIMILAR WANTED

Fabulous Mk1 Austin Mini-Cooper converted to Cooper ‘S’ specification when new.

EQUIPMENT
Bumper overriders with tubular extensions, bright finishing to windscreen and sills, chromed filler caps, chromed number plate lamp, double-dip headlamps, hinged rear number plate, sliding windows, opening rear windows, wide door pockets, oval nacelle facia, flashing indicator stalk, fresh air heater, oil pressure gauge, water temperature gauge, door kick protectors, front and rear ashtrays, two crushable sun visors. Fitted accessories; Additional 25 litre fuel tank, Smiths revolution gauge, Hardy Spicer universal joints, headlamp protectors, leather bonnet straps, Lucus rear spot, driver mirror, period fire extinguisher.

EXTERIOR
This Austin Mini-Cooper is pert and smart finished in its original Almond Green with the roof in Old English White and has an impressive glossy finish. All the chrome detailing has a mirror finish and is immaculate. Tiny paint flaws can be seen on close scrutiny and the glass, rubbers and lenses are unmarked. Tasteful period accessories such as headlamp protectors and brown leather bonnet straps add a subtle sporting look. The engine bay is a delight and has been detailed. A splendid show piece.

INTERIOR
Glorious having been retrimmed in the Porcelain Green and Dove Grey which complements the exterior wonderfully. Washable vinyl-coated fabric seats match the door cards and the patterned headlining is tight and clean. The fitted carpets are spotless but the floor mounted ashtray has been removed leaving neat cuts. The two spoke steering wheel with the Morris badge is in excellent order. The large instrument nacelle housing all the warning lights and gauges function perfectly as does the flashing indicator stalk and period revolution gauge. The boot area is clean displaying the optional second fuel tank disconnected for practically. Simply divine.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
A water cooled in-line overhead-valve four-cylinder matching numbers engine mounted transversely has a cubic capacity of 1275cc and produces 75bhp. The twin S.U carburettors with a combined air cleaner give a purposeful induction note and the four-speed gearbox allows spirited progress. The engine bay has been detailed for bonnet-up showing and creating a ‘wow’ factor.

WHEELS, TYRES, BRAKES & SUSPENSION
Pressed 4.5 inch Cooper ‘S’ steel wheels are finished in Old English White and show small blemishes with chrome embellishers. 7.5 inch front discs and rear drums are supplemented by a diaphragm servo as per the ‘S’ specification. Hydrolastic fluid suspension gives an already dynamic Mini superb handling qualities even better road adhesion. Pure fun!

HISTORY FILE
Supplied by Anstey’s Ltd in Maidstone, this wonderful example was built in August 1964 and registered on the 18th September in the same year. The certified copy of a factory record provided by the Heritage Trust confirms this example to be a matching numbers genuine Cooper. On instruction from the first owner who was not prepared to wait for a factory Cooper ‘S’ delivery changes were made to this example to replicate the ‘S’ specification. Enthusiast owned by all five former keepers the previous owner, Mr Richard Hoar went to the trouble of dating the modifications and has enjoyed many shows and events.

HPI Clear.

SORRY NOW SOLD – SIMILAR WANTED

A striking Austin Morris Mini 850 Super known as Mini ‘Electric Blue’.

EQUIPMENT
All steel unitary construction, hinged rear quarter windows, inertia reel front seatbelts, two speed windscreen wipers with electric wash, flick wipe facility, electrically heated rear window, fresh air heater/demister, central speedometer and instrument cluster.  ‘Electric Blue’ upgrades to include; torpedo mirrors, chrome bumpers and grille, Aston quick release fuel filler, chrome spot lamps, wide Sportspack style arch spats, Classic front bucket seats, M Range sports steering wheel, alloy gear knob, alloy sports pedals, 10 piece alloy interior handle set, full carpet and insulation set, boot lining kit, stainless steel fascia, leather dash top, chrome rear view mirror, black head lining, remote Scorpion alarm system.

EXTERIOR
Based on a humble Austin Morris Mini 850, this unique and bespoke creation is finished in vibrant Rover Tahiti Blue and boasts a bright shiny finish.  The contrasting Old English White roof shows a very faint area of discolouration, barely noticeable.  All the chrome is perfect, including the eight slat grille and front and rear bumpers, as are the colour coded wheel arch spats.  Far removed from its humble 850 Super beginnings but still retaining the classic Mini charm, this wonderful creation is a worthy accolade to the original marque and a true credit to its creators.

INTERIOR
The figure hugging buckets seats to the front hold the occupants tightly and safely and are pristine, as is the matching rear bench.  The matching black door cards are dressed with alloy fitments to compliment the cars styling immensely.  Brand new black carpeting and leatherette headlining are further enhancements to the interior.  Completing the package is the leather topped dash and stainless steel fascia tastefully upgraded but still retaining the original smith speedometer and gauges.  All functions and controls operate.  A specialist Mini parts supplier invoice is in the file with documented spend of £718.35 on interior trim in September 2014 alone!

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
Needing little introduction, the engine is the 4-cylinder transverse OHV 848cc A series unit developing a capable but perhaps pedestrian 33bhp!  This example is in excellent mechanical order with quiet and reliable performance on offer.  The clean engine bay has been tastefully dressed with some visually pleasing components to keep the avid polisher occupied!  The four speed all synchromesh gearbox is smooth and light offering precise gear changes effortlessly.  Classic Minis are renowned for their simplistic fun characteristics and this example is no exception!

WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES
Eye catching and pristine 12in Superlight deep dish alloy wheels look brilliant with absolutely no damage whatsoever.  Quality Falken Ziex 165/60 R12 tyres have masses of tread remaining.  The spare wheel is housed correctly alongside the battery in a fully trimmed boot area.  The dual line hydraulic brakes incorporate the original drum set up all round to offer adequate stopping power.

HISTORY FILE
Registered new on 1st August 1979 this humble Mini 850 Super has undergone an interesting transformation to become the bespoke car you see today.  The original clocks display a mileage of 47,448 miles and the factory fitted engine remains.  Whilst enjoying ultra-stylish yet tasteful aesthetics, this example has remained true to the classic Mini fundamentals.  With sporting looks, vivacious paintwork and a fresh modern interior this awesome Mini is ideal for a younger driver wanting a slice of classic car motoring with the added benefit of a smaller engine for lower insurance premium.  Absolute mechanical simplicity and massive parts network makes this Mini the shrewd choice for the dare to be different motorist.  Invoices in the history file for a full service, carburettor set up and new clutch in September 2014 ensure this Mini is ready for the next owner to have fun.

HPI Clear

SORRY NOW SOLD – SIMILAR WANTED

Quite possibly the best unrestored Austin Allegro 1100 DeLuxe with 10,190 miles.

EQUIPMENT
All steel unitary construction, underbody protection, recessed door-handles, anti-burst locks, safety steering column, Hydragas suspension, laminated windscreen, electric washers, two-speed wipers, flick wipe, exterior door mirror, hazard warning lights, child safety catches on rear doors, fresh-flow ventilation, heated rear window, Quartic steering wheel.  Factory options; Brake servo.  Dealer accessories; Mud flaps, Radiomobile.

EXTERIOR
Finished in the extremely rare factory original colour of Mirage, (Code BLVC11), this amazing Series One Allegro has been preserved incredibly well, owing to the remarkable low mileage of 10,190 under truly cherished ownership.  The factory paint finish displays only minor age related markings and the chrome bumpers display very light pitting, utterly inoffensive and left untreated so as to uphold originality.  Factory wax is visible in door apertures and on the clean underside which is free from excess rust proofing to allow easy inspection.  Features unique to the early Series One cars remain correct such as the external bonnet release and the C-Pillar vents screwed from the inside as opposed external screws on later cars.  Remarkable originality can be seen in the form of supplying dealer number plates, rear screen sticker and tax disc holder.  The original Allegro bonnet and boot badges are fitted as well as the iconic British Leyland emblem fitted to the nearside wing only, just as they were made.  This humble DeLuxe model was the entry level Allegro, and as such had no coachline, a feature which is upheld.  An almost inconceivable rare survivor against unfavourable odds, very special.

INTERIOR
The spacious interior of this Allegro is completely original and in perfect preserved condition.  The Knit-backed vinyl seat upholstery in Spanish Rose is essentially as new, as are the matching partial door cards and rubber floor coverings, again unique to the Deluxe model.  Still fitted is the famous Quartic steering wheel, arguably the most iconic feature of the Allegro to allow ease of access and a better view of the instruments.  Widely ridiculed as a concept, the Quartic wheel was phased out in 1974.  A reflection of British Leyland quality control can be witnessed with factory glue marks on the headlining and even the chalk line to mark out siting of the instrument binnacle!  Incredibly, a factory build tag is still attached inside the boot.  Complete with the 1970’s British Leyland smell, this interior is astonishing.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
The legendary and time proven A-Series engine of 1098cc displacement is robust, simple and has excellent parts availability.  Producing an ample 49bhp and 59lb/ft of torque, this Allegro can hold its own in modern traffic.  The engine is wonderfully quiet and whilst the clean engine bay shows natural aging, it is completely original and features factory plates and stickers.  Even the Hydragas suspension sticker on the sphere remains intact!  The four speed hydraulically operated all synchromesh gearbox delivers light and exact changes complete with the instantly recognisable first gear whine!

WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES
Original pressed steel disc wheels with chrome hub caps are immaculate and shod in quality matching Pirelli P3000 tyres with excellent tread remaining.  The well maintained Hydrogas suspension system is free from leaks and allows the car to sit level and correct, and more importantly ride as it should.  The hydraulic brake system with 9.68in front discs and factory optional servo bring the car up safe and steady.

HISTORY FILE
Supplied by Austin Main Dealer, Peter O’Gorman in Essex, this 1973 built 1100 DeLuxe was registered new on the 21st February 1974.  A new car retail order form made out to first owner, Miss Joan Earl, confirms a purchase price of £1,100.00 including £11.75 for brake servo, a factory option!  A well-known example within the Allegro Owners Club with plenty of stand appearances, including the NEC Classic Car Show, this delightful car nicknamed ‘Violet’ is used to the limelight.  ‘Violet’ has been awarded Best Series One Allegro at every Allegro Club International event it has attended!  With just three former keepers, the previous of five years being Mr Ian Cole who has been a member of the Allegro Club International for 23 years, and has held in this period positions of Chairman, Director and Membership Secretary.

The superb history file contains the original orange Passport to Service and Allegro handbook, as well as a 1974 Austin Allegro range sales brochure.  A large history folder is beautifully presented and contains a substantial collection of MOT certificates throughout the cars entire lifetime and maintenance invoices to fully verify the low mileage of 10,190 miles.  Furthermore, a record of TV appearances on three separate programmes is included!  The original key set remains including the ignition key with very rare eyelet hole to delight the Allegro aficionado.  An unrepeatable opportunity to buy surely one of the best unrestored examples of British Leyland motoring history.

HPI clear.

SORRY NOW SOLD – SIMILAR CARS URGENTLY REQUIRED

A rare surviving Austin Metro Vanden Plas with an incredible 21,923 miles from new.

EQUIPMENT
All steel unitary construction, laminated windscreen, bronze tinted glass, bright screen inserts, black rolled section bumpers, wrap around cappings, bright finish grille, twin door mirrors, bright finish door handles and tailgate lifter, coachline with ‘VP’ motifs, glass sunroof, rear mudflaps, locking concealed fuel filler, front head restraints, rear parcel shelf, brushed nylon headlining, front parcel shelf rubber mat with ‘VP’ motif, wood door cappings and carpet kick strips, tachometer, digital clock, heated rear window, rear wash/wipe, cigar lighter, removable sunroof and carry bag.

EXTERIOR
Finished in factory original colour Cashmere Gold Metallic (code GMD), this fantastic range topping luxury Metro is every inch a rare surviving delight and boasts a bright finish to the paintwork.  Minor imperfections can only be seen upon close scrutiny and include marks on the tailgate around the boot lock, a small ding on the bonnet and tiny scratches.  Structurally excellent, there is no evidence of weld repairs to the underside and all panels are straight with uniform gaps and free from corrosion.  All trims sections are original, intact and free from damage and the ‘VP’ badges, decals and coachline remain just as Austin intended.  Once a common sight on our roads, this fantastic example really does stir up nostalgia and with such low miles covered represents a wonderful opportunity to the collector and enthusiast alike.

INTERIOR
Vanden Plas, the renowned bespoke coachbuilders and trimmers started out in 1870 in Brussels and were synonymous with upmarket prestige vehicles.  In later years, the name was associated with British Leyland and Austin Rover Group cars, specifically for their range topping luxury models.  The plush interior of this Metro Vanden Plas is completely original and in perfect preserved condition.  The Rachelle upholstery in Osprey trim colour (code AMX) extends from the seats to the door cards and rear panels.  The spotlessly clean fabric is completely free from wear and still retains its fullness, as do the matching brown carpets protected by genuine Metro rubber floor mats.  The wood door cappings are perfect, as is the fascia and leather trimmed steering wheel.  All functions including the original push button LW/MW radio operate fully.  A truly remarkable interior in a superb preserved state, the ultimate small car luxury.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
The legendary and time proven A-Series engine of 1275cc displacement needs no introduction.  Producing an ample 63bhp, this spritely Metro can hold its own in modern traffic and is tremendous fun with Mini like road manners.  The four speed (3+E) all synchromesh gearbox delivers light and exact changes.  Robust simple mechanics and excellent parts availability allow everyday use and classic motoring without high running costs. Ideal for the classic show circuit!

WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES
Five factory standard 12” steel wheels remain with the car and are shod in 155/70 R12 tyres with excellent tread remaining.  The original black centre caps with ‘VP’ emblem are in excellent order but one chrome embellishers is missing.  The dual line servo-assisted brakes with 21.3cm discs up front and 17.8cm drums at the rear pull the car up quickly and safely.

HISTORY FILE
An absolutely fantastic history file supports this very rare and collectible Austin Metro Vanden Plas.  Registered new on 11th August 1983 by Austin Main Dealers Hartwells of Banbury, the first keeper being a Mr P Shepherd.  Just two further keeper since and just 21,923 miles from new, this example really has lead a cherished existence.  Discovered by KGF Classic Cars after a period of inactivity the decision was made to offer it again to a lucky new owner.  Every MOT from new up to 2010 along with masses of service invoices not only uphold the mileage but offer an insight to the fastidious maintenance bestowed upon the car.  The original A5 wallet houses the service booklet and consumer guides and an original sales brochure is included.

The driving experience of this car is fully commensurate with such a low mileage, low owner car with the clear ‘want for nothing’ mentality of the previous keepers.  A hugely fun classic car and an absolute delight.

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