Trio of European Classic Cars: Classic Restos - Series 48
Fletch is on the road again and catches up with three motoring enthusiasts who have a passion for Euro Classics. Nick with a 1972 Mercedes-Benz 350SL Convertible, his brother Les with something completely different, a Fiat X19, and Kate with a concourse condition 1959 Volkswagen Beetle.
Firstly, Nick's 1972 Mercedes-Benz 350SL Convertible is his second girlfriend because he takes her everywhere, and it's a real eye-catcher. The powerful big 4.5 litre V8 is one of its attractions, and whilst it likes a drink, it goes well. Fletch puts it down to smooth, effortless torque that these big heavy Mercedes- Benz were renowned for.
Brother Les has had a 40-year passion for his Fiat X19, which he purchased new and has now travelled 395,000Kms. Fletch comments on the remarkable condition of the vehicle. The two-seater mid-engine model is styled by Bertone, whose other cars include Ferrari, Lamborghini and Alfa Romeo. So the Fiat is in good company in terms of styling. But even Les admits, "it's the poor man's Ferrari," but the car is very well balanced due to the mid-engine and is very sporty with a 5-speed gearbox. It's also good on petrol consumption and has some unique features like the Targa roof. The Italian styling still turns heads today when he takes it out for a spin.
Kate's Australian delivered 1959 Volkswagen Beetle, has only had three owners in its life to date. A beautiful original bare metal fully restored vehicle, the car has matching engine and chassis numbers and a new paint job in the original Ceramic Green, Kate's favourite colour. Kate has added a couple of her own touches to the car, including the Houndstooth trim on the interior and a Porsche 356 steering wheel. Her favourite car, other than this one, is the Porsche Speedster. The very appropriate personalised plate VW59 came with the car. Kate says it's great for Sunday drives where you can escape, relax and just drive. It's a very special car to her family, and they will keep it forever.
