Hillman Avenger GT....My First Drive......

I would have been around 17 when my father purchased a new Hillman Avenger. Ever since I could remember my father would change his car every one or two years. I always enjoyed the experience of looking at all his possible purchases and sitting in every one of course.

My father was a very practical man and though he could have spent money on more upmarket cars he did not feel the need. I of course always tried to convince him the next model up the best etc etc.

His purchase of the Avenger GT surprised me as I thought he would say 'we do not need a GT version'...but he bucked the trend this time!

When I turned 18 my father started my driving tuition in the Avenger. The year would have been 1973 and I could not wait for each lesson to start.

The Avenger was 1.5 litre and I think it had twin carbs etc...anyway it was very free revving in our opinion compared to similar cars. The seats were very decent for the time and I remember it had two very large instrument 'stalks' each side of the steering wheel which made a change from what other cars had.

I would like to say I passed my driving test and then was let loose with the Avenger...sadly not. My mother, though she had her own car, often shared the avenger with my father but found it a little too 'lively' and thirsty especially when used as a shopping car also.

The Avenger was sold and I never had the pleasure of driving it solo. I was very lucky in having a wonderful father who brought me a Hillman Imp...which I passed my test in...the Imp is another story !!

Dave