Here goes
My Grandfather was a keen automotive enthusiast, he was the HOD Automobile engg in IIT Bombay. His previous cars included a Wolseley and a 62 Fiat, MRX 8212. When he moved to Pune in 74, he wanted to replace his Fiat with a newer one, (not much choice then was there.) One Col Srivastav from Nashik wanted to dispose of his 73 Premier President, and a deal was struck. 15k if I remember correctly. I have the invoice somewhere. Being the enthusiast that he was, (heck, I found Polish spark plugs on the car), in the 80s the car was upgraded to Padmini spec, meaning new plastic grille, hubcaps, indicators, lights, trims, meters...you name it! In retrospect that wasnt a smart move, but back then he had a brand new 15 year old car.
Now my grandparents rarely ventured far out, and the car I estimate has covered under 50k kms. The car got a new speedo in 96, so not exactly sure, I havent found the log books. (BTW, I found an original one for 100 bucks yesterday). Infact since he retired in the early 90s, the running was not even 500 meters a day, to the Boat Club and back.
Cut to 2000(ish). The grandfolks decide that the old girl has had enough, and has to go. I was aghast, but they were only too happy to know I would like to keep the car, and she was mine. First things first, I raided grandma's house (she wasnt too pleased), and dug out the original front grille, which is near impossible to find. It made such a world of difference. Bit by bit I sourced original side trims, indicators, lights, and other misc bits. Special thanks to forum member President for a set of brand new hubcaps and indicators. His car has inspired me to get my car in order. So next was touching up the 25 year old cellulose paint, which was still superb in quality, but cracking in many places. The lower half was repainted last month, but im not too happy. Will post pics in a coupla days. The plush seats are still supremely comfortable, and were renewed in the 80s with extra bolstering (so my head hits the roof!). I doubt anyone can do this kind of job today, so Im ignoring the 2 rips in the front seat.
Since then I've also added an elegant horn ring. They are so convienient to use, I sorely miss it in any other car I drive. (Need it in Puneri traffic). Pic is shot on my bonnet. Note flawless paintwork. Sigh, the times they are achanging. My new paintjob looks crap now, wonder how it will look in 25 years.
Mechanically the car is a dream, having run so little. Quarter start, which has Kiran most amazed
. Grand dad had put in some special pistons, beats me what. She also has a lotta gizmos like an alternator, AC (never used it though), tacho, oil pressure and vaccuum guage amongst other things which were unheard of back then. Methinks Ill keep these. The sunfilms will defnitely go though.