Cheeky Valentine’s survey proves classic car enthusiasts are Mini not Maxi lovers!
Despite the fully fold down rear seats and ample boot space, the Austin Maxi has been placed bottom in a poll of British classic cars favoured by drivers for a first date between 1960 – 1990.
Instead, in an online survey by Great British Car Journey, the original Mini has been declared the all-time favourite British car for romance.
Ahead of Valentine’s Day, the Derbyshire classic car visitor attraction asked its 16,000 strong social media following to tell them about the car in which they had their first or most memorable date in.
In the full list of the top 10 British cars for a first date, second and third place in the survey were claimed by the iconic Ford Capri followed by the loveable Morris Minor respectively.
1. Mini
2. Ford Capri
3. Morris Minor
4. Ford Escort
5. Austin Metro
6. Ford Fiesta
7. Hillman Imp
8. MGB
9. Austin Morris 1100
10. Austin Maxi
Richard Usher, Chief Executive of the classic car visitor attraction, said: “Cleary the cramped conditions of the classic Mini were no deterrent to romance as our survey has shown. The Maxi was a brave attempt to create something new but was let down by a simply shocking 5 speed gearbox and a dumpy unattractive shape. Despite its poor reputation the car had many redeeming features, particularly when it came to dating!
“Despite what its critics may say, the Austin Maxi was a great concept, and I am delighted to have a superb 1981 example in the Great British Car Journey collection.”
Produced from 1969 – 1981, the Austin Maxi is recognised for being Britain’s first genuinely family-sized hatchback, with plenty of space and seats that folded down into a lumpy double bed. Only half a million were sold compared to the far sexier Ford Capri which was launched the same year and sold 1.9 million worldwide by the end of production.
To celebrate Valentine’s Day and help people relive their dating memories of days gone by, Great British Car Journey is offering couples discounted admission to the attraction in Ambergate. Entry for couples is just £25, compared to £30 for two single admissions.
For couples that really want the ultimate trip down Memory Lane, they can also take the car they enjoyed their first or most memorable date in for a drive. The Drive Dad’s Car experience at Great British Car Journey offers people the chance to get back behind the wheel of 30 British classics including the Mini, Morris Minor and Ford Capri.
As part of our Valentine’s Day celebrations, Great British Car Journey is also offering 20% off all Drive Dad’s Car experiences booked up until midnight on Monday 14 February 2022. To claim the discount, simply use the code VALENTINES20 when booking online at www.drivedadscar.com
