Austin Princess Cars: Texas Muscle with a Unique Flair

The Austin Princess stands as a rare gem in the world of American muscle, born from the collaboration between Austin Motor Company and Princess Motor Company in the 1960s. Designed as a premium convertible counterpart to the iconic Austin-Healey, the Princess blended British sports car DNA with American luxury, creating a distinctive niche in automotive history.
While overshadowed by its larger siblings, the Austin Princess earned admiration for its sleek lines, powerful engines, and hand-built craftsmanship. Today, these cars are cherished by collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate their rarity, character, and enduring style.
This guide explores the evolution of the Austin Princess, key models like the 1967–1970 series, and why owning one remains a proud achievement in the muscle car world.

The Origins and Design Philosophy

Austin Princess cars emerged from a joint venture between Austin and Princess, aiming to deliver a high-end convertible that stood apart from standard Austin models. Drawing inspiration from the Jaguar E-Type and Ford Thunderbird, the Princess emphasized elegance and performance. Designers focused on aerodynamic curves, premium interiors, and a smooth ride—features that made the car feel both powerful and refined.
The collaboration brought British engineering precision with American comfort, resulting in a vehicle that appealed to discerning drivers seeking exclusivity. Early models featured 4.2-liter inline-six engines paired with smooth transmissions, offering a balanced blend of speed and refinement.

Classic Models and Production Timeline

The Austin Princess line ran from 1967 to 1970, with production peaking in 1969. The series evolved through several iterations, starting with the initial 1967 model and progressing to updated versions featuring improved engines, upgraded interiors, and enhanced handling.
The 1968 model introduced more powerful variants, including a 440 cubic inch V8 option, catering to buyers who wanted performance without sacrificing luxury. By 1970, the line saw final refinements—lighter materials, better suspension tuning, and premium wood-trimmed dashboards—before the project was quietly discontinued. Only a few hundred true Austin Princesses were built, making each car a collector’s treasure.

Restoration and Modern Revival

Though original Austin Princesses are scarce, a growing community of restorers is bringing these classics back to life. Enthusiasts and specialists carefully preserve original components while integrating modern reliability where possible. Upgrades like fuel injection, improved braking, and lightweight wheels enhance both safety and performance without compromising authenticity.
Today, a well-restored Princess commands high values at auctions and collector events, symbolizing timeless style and mechanical excellence. Owning or restoring one is more than a hobby—it’s a connection to a bygone era of automotive artistry.

Why Austin Princess Cars Still Captivate Collectors

In an age of mass-produced vehicles, the Austin Princess endures as a symbol of craftsmanship and individuality. Its rarity, elegant design, and passionate fan base make it a prized possession. Enthusiasts value not just the car’s performance but the story it tells—a blend of Texas pride, British influence, and American car culture.
For those drawn to unique, high-quality muscle vehicles, the Austin Princess offers a rare opportunity to own a genuine piece of automotive history. With proper care and attention, these cars continue to inspire and delight generations of drivers.

Key Supporting Keywords and Topics

• Austin-Healey collaboration
  
• Vintage convertibles
  
• Classic muscle restoration
  
• Rare automotive collectibles
  
• Texas car heritage