1958 Austin Princess IV

Lot details
Registration No: VYM 660
Chassis No: DS713726
Mot Expiry: Nov 2010

"The Princess IV is a handsome car, capable of high performance, but at its best when driven in a leisurely manner. Its automatic transmission and powered steering encourage relaxed driving, and the comfort and fittings of the interior are in keeping. It is equally suitable for chauffeur or owner driver - business or pleasure - and provides spacious, luxurious travel at a price well below average for its class" (Autocar, 3rd October 1958).

Launched in 1956, the Princess IV was Austin's attempt to produce a high-performance luxury vehicle capable of rivalling the contemporary Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud / Bentley S1. Based on a massive cruciform-braced chassis equipped with independent front suspension, leaf-sprung rear axle and servo-assisted drum brakes, it was powered by a specially tuned version of Longbridge's famous 4-litre straight-six engine (that would later see service in the Jensen 541R grand tourer). With a reputed 150bhp and 212lbft of torque on tap, the Princess IV was capable of over 100mph. Built to special order only, a mere 200 had rolled off the line by the time production ceased in 1959.

Finished in blue with grey leather upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "very good" condition with regard to its coachwork, paintwork, engine and electrical equipment. While, he states the automatic transmission is in "working order" and that the interior trim is "lovely and presentable with an original feel". Reportedly supplied new to Hertfordshire-based mill owners in May 1959, `VYM 660' is further understood to have migrated to Liverpool during 1966 and onto Manchester the following decade. More recently it belonged to an enthusiast who used the Princess for short journeys in and around Preston on an almost daily basis. Boasting an engine that apparently develops "plenty of power but no worrying smoke or rattles", the stylish Austin has not long returned from a 70-mile rally. Apparently one of just sixty or so known survivors, `VYM 660' is summed up by the seller as "a great weekend toy or wedding car" and comes with sundry paperwork (1974 MOT certificate, old invoices) and MOT certificate valid until November 2010.