Description
Yes, the humble yet iconic 'jelly mould' repmobile from the 1980s has finally achieved classic status - well this Mk1 example is now 40 years old after all! When did you last see one on the road? We imported this car from Mpumalanga State in South Africa for one simple reason - it's outstanding original condition and super low mileage, far superior to most (if not all) similar aged cars from the UK.
With the hot dry climate of inland South Africa being far kinder to old cars, this one has survived it's gentle use over the last 40 years in remarkable condition with all factory welds present and still wearing it's original paint. Although undocumented, the recorded mileage of just 50, 000 km (31, 000 miles) on the clock would seem to be genuine and certainly in line with the superb overall condition of the paint, body, mechanicals and interior evidenced in front of us.
The other factor that made it more interesting for us as an import proposition is the presence of the Cologne manufactured 2. 3 litre V6 engine under the bonnet coupled to an Automatic box for a relaxed modern classic driving experience in today's traffic. It performed admirably when recently taken out for a couple of shake down test drives locally. Also notable was the number of smiles and positive comments received from other motorists, evoking memories of a better time in history for most people no doubt.
If you are wondering about the 'GLE' badge it is a rare South African market only model introduced before the XR6 became available there. We have just fitted new tyres all round and it is now UK registered and importantly tax, MOT and ULEZ exempt.
Devon too far to travel?
This car can be seen on our stand in Hall 3 at the NEC Classic Motor Show 8th-10th November.
