The Frazer-Tickford Metro pictured here is one out of 26 such cars built by a former engineering subdivision of Aston Martin, Tickford. It is 39 years old and expected to fetch between £35,000 and £45,000.
The British automaker produced the exotic based on the Austin Mini Metro that was popular in 1980–1998. Tickford upgraded it with an impressive-looking body kit and a cruise control system, tweaked the chassis and boosted the 1.3-liter engine to 82 PS (81 hp / 80 kW). The interior received a deluxe overhaul with leather, Alcantara, a sunroof, power windows, and a stereo player.
Only three such cars made it into the United States, this being one of them. It has the steering wheel on the left size and sports a Dark Bronze finish. In 1982, it participated in the Los Angeles Auto Show, after which it was acquired by renowned Ferrari photographer Wendal ‘Rick’ McBride.
The compact ride is apparently still in great condition with barely above 15,000 km (9,300 miles) on the odo and papers confirming that mileage. The most recent maintenance was three years ago: the cracked windshield was replaced with a new one and the interior trim was updated. A new £3,000 exhaust system was also installed.
Back in the time, McBride paid £11,600 for the car – more than a new Porsche 944 cost at the moment.