Lot 278 - 1985 Austin Maestro 1.3 Mk. I
| Lot Number | 278 |
| Registration | C915 TLX |
| Chassis Number | SAXXCHWD1AM330395 |
| Engine Number | 12H999AA0198118 |
| Odometer reading | 18,266 miles |
| Result | Sold - £1,487 |
- Offered without reserve
- Very low recorded mileage and ownership
- Mk. I early dashboard example
The Austin Maestro was produced from 1983 to 1987 by British Leyland and from 1988 until 1995 by Rover Group. The car was produced at the former Morris plant in Cowley, Oxford although today, the redeveloped factory produces the BMW Mini. The Maestro incorporated many novel and pioneering features for its class. It had a bonded laminated windscreen, homofocal headlamps, body-coloured plastic bumpers, an electronic engine management system, adjustable front seat belt upper anchorage positions, an asymmetrically split rear seat and a 12,000-mile service interval.
Offered from a deceased estate, this 1985 Austin Maestro is in remarkable and original condition. The Maestro has only three owners recorded in total. A Miss Audrey Baker purchased the car on 14th October 1985 less than one month from the date of first registration at the original supplying Austin-Rover dealers the Marn Group, London. The car was the pride and joy of its last owner and attended many local rallies. When he purchased the car in 2013, the centre of the roof had dull paintwork so a Union Jack was applied. This does not detract from the overall appearance; in fact, quite the opposite with, apparently, many positive comments received from onlookers during trips. The car was recently inspected by a marque collector and specialist who stated that, due to the car’s condition, the mileage is believed genuine making this, probably, one of the lowest mileage examples in existence. Certainly, on inspection, the key areas that are first to succumb to rot and wear on these models are in remarkable condition. These include the engine bay, undersides, filler cap area, interior and luggage compartment area amongst others. There are one or two marks on the coachwork, but these do not deflect from its overall condition. This example is a Mk. I base model with the more desirable early dashboard and instrumentation. The car comes complete with its original and unused tools and jack etc. There is also a UK V5C registration document, manuals, original radio (not fitted) and approximately two boxes of spare parts.
Finished in Moonraker Blue with a grey interior, this charming Maestro is a rare car indeed and with such low mileage, ownership history and great condition, it is highly collectible.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.