Austin Metro
ENGINE 998cc/4-cyl/OHV POWER 47bhp@5500rpm TORQUE 55lb ft@3300rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 86mph 0-60MPH 18.2sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 38-44mpg TRANSMISSION FWD, four-speed manual MoT July 2018 ODOMETER 16,942 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
The car starts up straightaway without any choke, though it would be needed on cold mornings. The engine comes up to temperature quickly and idles comfortably, sounding exactly how it should. The car drives as well as you would expect, given the mileage, and everything feels firm and stable. The steering is straight and true and the small wheels and tyres mean that the steering is light, but with no wandering or slack. The car stops smoothly and efficiently with no pulling to either side. The clutch feels strong and the four-speed gearbox provides crisp gear changes. The engine pulls well for a sub-1.0-litre and is wellbehaved both in town and on the open road.
BODYWORK CHECK
The original Flame Red paint is immaculate – it’s obvious that this car has been very well looked after. The bodywork is straight and unblemished; new body-coloured bumpers were fitted in 2008. Underneath is in similar condition, including all wheel arches and sills, and the black stonechip paint looks fresh and new. There is not a spot of rust anywhere. All of the wheels are in perfect condition and the all-Dunlop tyres have plenty of life left in them. There’s no damage or uneven wear, indicating that the suspension and steering are set up correctly.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
The interior is basic and plasticky, but in excellent condition. There’s no sun damage and no cracks. The carpets appear to have hardly been used and the seats and headlining have held up well. There is no sign of damp anywhere and no unpleasant smells. Everything looks new and is in original condition, including the Philips radio. All switchgear and electrics are in good working order. The engine bay is extremely tidy, with only a tiny misting of oil on the block. All ancillaries look fresh and the engine itself presents well with its painted valve cover. The area is free from rust and grime and what sound-deadening material there is looks new. Suspension and steering components are highly visible on a car like this and everything appears shipshape and free from corrosion or damage. A comprehensive folder of receipts and service records evidences the car’s impressive history.
THE CCW VIEW
This is an extremely wellpresented example of the much-vaunted ‘Mini replacement’. It’s a rare sight on the roads today, but this is one of the best we’ve seen. Perfect for pootling around town and in a condition that belies its age. Not so concours that it can’t be driven and enjoyed, but make sure you keep up with the impeccable service history. Dale Vinten