The Austin Montego: From Family Saloon to Rare Gem
The Austin Montego, once a familiar sight on British roads, has become a bit of a motoring mystery. Remember those chunky estates you used to see your grandparents piloting to Sunday roasts? Yeah, those. But how many are left gracing the tarmac today? Buckle up, because we're about to dive into the dwindling world of the Montego.
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| How Many Austin Montego Left |
From Mass-Produced to Nearly Extinct
Over 546,000 Austin and Rover Montegos rolled off the production line between 1984 and 1995. Back then, they were the kings of the car park, shuttling families and ferrying cargo. Fast forward to today, and things are a little different. According to the folks at HowManyLeft.co.uk, there are only around 20 Montegos left with a valid MOT (that's the Ministry of Transport test, for those unfamiliar). That's a whopping 99.98% decrease in a quarter of a century! Where did they all go? Did they evaporate in a cloud of Austin-scented smoke?
Theories on the Montego's Disappearance
Here's the thing: Montegos weren't exactly known for their legendary reliability. Some say they were destined for the scrapyard from the get-go. Others believe they were abducted by aliens with a penchant for 1980s boxy design. The most likely culprit? The relentless march of time. Many Montegos simply succumbed to the inevitable rust and breakdowns, eventually meeting their maker in a grand symphony of crunching metal.
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But hey, don't despair for the Montego just yet! Those remaining 20 are like automotive diamonds in the rough. Imagine the heads you'll turn cruising down the street in a perfectly preserved piece of British motoring history.
So, You Think You've Spotted a Montego in the Wild?
Maybe you've seen a silhouette that looks suspiciously Montego-ish. Here's how to tell the real deal from a memory lapse:
Tip: Take notes for easier recall later.
- The boxy silhouette: It's a dead giveaway. Montegos were champions of the right-angled aesthetic.
- The pop-up headlights: A true symbol of 80s automotive flair.
- A healthy dose of nostalgia: If you feel a sudden urge to buy a shell suit and rewatch Miami Vice, that's your Montego confirmation bias kicking in.
But owning a Montego isn't just about reliving the past. It's a commitment to a unique car with a dwindling population. You'll become part of an exclusive club, united by your love of a vehicle that time (almost) forgot.
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Montego FAQs
How to find a Montego? Keep an eye on classic car websites and enthusiast forums. Patience is key!
Tip: Reading in chunks improves focus.
How to restore a Montego? Unless you're a seasoned mechanic, enlist the help of a professional. Those 80s wires can be tricky.
How to drive a Montego? Remember, it's a classic, not a Formula One car. Take it slow and enjoy the ride (literally, because it won't be a fast one).
Tip: Rest your eyes, then continue.
How to maintain a Montego? Regular servicing is essential. Treat it with love, and it'll (hopefully) return the favor.
How cool will I look cruising in a Montego? Off the scale. Just imagine the Instagram potential!
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