1979 AUSTIN PRINCESS 2 HL 2200

ENGINE 2227cc/6-cyl/OHV POWER 110bhp@5250rpm TORQUE 125lb ft@3500rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 105mph 0-60MPH 11.8sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 23-29mpg TRANSMISSION FWD, three-speed automatic MoT May 2019 ODOMETER 73,905 miles

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

Once the manual choke is dispensed with, the gears select with ease (rather than with thumps), while performance proves brisk for such a large car. The Hydragas suspension is firm but not harsh and deals with all but the roughest of road surfaces, while the assisted steering makes tight manoeuvres easy. The brakes are a little sharp but quickly bring this heavy car to a halt.

BODYWORK CHECK

Good fortune befell this Austin when its third owner took custody in 1985. Its original Russet Brown exterior was looking rather tired by the Nineties, but it received a makeover rather than being retired. A photographic restoration, including a respray in Toyota White Pearl, combine well with a new beige vinyl roof and the original interior. The underside and wheel arches have been resealed and the exterior finish remains excellent two decades later. Unfortunately, the engine bay and boot areas remain in their original colours.

HOW’S THE INTERIOR?

Very familiar and typically BL with a basic radio, manual windows and individual locking; it has unworn carpets and comfortable velour seating with armrests. A combination of sandy beige and brown colours looks better than it sounds and the three dials and selection of switches all operate correctly. The roof lining is also clean and the rear seat has endured very little wear. The floormounted gear selector can be a little awkward; no fault of this car – that’s how they were in period.

UNDER THE BONNET

The big six-pot looks clean and leak-free. A new exhaust system has been fitted from the down pipe to the tail and the car has just had a full service, including a new coil. The history file includes a manual, brochures, plus MoTs back until 1985 when the last owner took over. It confirms light use over 33 years and includes restoration details from the Nineties. It was stored from 2004 until last year and has covered just 50 miles since it was recommissioned.

THE CCW VIEW

This is the last 1979 prefacelift Princess 2 automatic left on UK roads. It has enjoyed a charmed life but could still be improved, especially under the bonnet. Rare, keenly-priced and far more attractive than we remember, with hindsight.