Identify this car for 1 point:
This looks like a Leyland Clubman van, but the lefthand drive makes me wonder if it might be an Innocenti variant of the Leyland.
Quote from: diecastaussie on September 02, 2010, 08:37:38 PM
This looks like a Leyland Clubman van, but the lefthand drive makes me wonder if it might be an Innocenti variant of the Leyland.
Not a Leyland or an Innocenti!
Experts?
Phoenix - a Mini-based estate from Phoenix Automotive?
Quote from: woodinsight on September 16, 2010, 10:48:07 AM
Phoenix - a Mini-based estate from Phoenix Automotive?
Yes it is. It was made by Paul Haussauer of Clan Crusader fame around 1983/6.
Some more recent shots of one. There were several made, although i've never seen one in the wild
Well, we know what it is. But why? It is just so so similar to a Mini Clubman estate that I can't see why anyone would want to make or buy one.
Good question - why?
Perhaps it was made of wood and plastic like the Clan, so didn't rust as fast as a real Mini. Might also have had a comfortable driving position.
Description from The Book:
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An amazing collection of ex-Lotus people was involved with the Clan Crusader. On of the main movers was Paul Haussauer (pronounced 'osserway'), whose trade continued to be general glass-fibre work into the 1980's. His Phoenix was an ultra-worthy attempt to make a completely rust-free and practical car in kit form. It used untouched Mini subframes, reskinned doors and interior parts in a painted GRP monocoque body which was deliberately reminiscent of a Mini Clubman Estate (reminiscent?! - NEH). It was expensive but easy to build and more practical than a Mini thanks to a bigger interior and proper tailgate.
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Phoenix ad: