Lot 005: Hillman Avenger 1250 Deluxe

Launched in February 1970, the Avenger was the first and last car to be developed by Rootes after the Chrysler takeover in 1967. Stylistically it was very much in tune with its era, the 'Coke bottle' waistline, 'hockey stick' rear light clusters and semi-fastback rear-end being very groovy at the time. Mechanically it was rather conventional, using a 4-cylinder all-iron overhead valve engine in 1250 or 1500 capacities driving a coil spring suspended live axle at the rear wheels. However, it was still highly praised by the press for its good road manners and was considered a significantly better car than rivals like the Morris Marina. It sold steadily throughout the 1970s and was rebadged as a Chrysler in 1976 and then a Talbot before production ceased in 1981. Looking particularly groovy in green, this 1972 DL Deluxe model has had just two owners from new, the first of whom owned it right up until 2005. With a mere 16,693 miles on the clock it is in true timewarp condition and must surely be one of the finest examples left in existence. Used as a showroom exhibit for the last several years, it is said to be in perfect running order and with a little detailing to the engine bay could easily be turned into a concours-winning specimen.