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Austin

LC10 Prototype , 1978

Image copyright © BMIHT
Make
Austin
Manufacturer
British Leyland
Location Made
Longbridge
Accession Number
1980-1-41
Collection
BMIHT Vehicle Collection
Type
Car
Status
Permanent collection
Engine
4 cyl, 1275 cc, 68 bhp
Fuel
Petrol
Top Speed
not quoted
Body Style
Hatchback
Price When New
Not quoted
Materials
metal, rubber, plastics, glass, textiles
Dimensions
3536mm (l), 1616mm (w), 1737mm (h)
Location
Collections Centre

The Maestro was the second 'recovery' model produced by BL (the first being the Metro in 1980). Launched in March 1983, it replaced Allegro, Maxi and Ital. Its rivals included VW's Golf and the Ford Escort.

Initially codenamed LC10, this is an early engineering development car. Styled in Solihull's design office, it has some similarities with the final version of the Maestro designed by David Bache.

With plenty of glass and a spacious interior for a car of its size, the LC10 prototype feels light and airy. There are one or two interior features that made it to Maestro, such as the square fascia and the almost vertical dashboard slot for the radio.