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Princess Diana’s iconic Audi 80 Cabriolet set to go under the hammer

The convertible is expected to fetch big money during March 28 auction in Birmingham, UK



Motivated by a 2.3-litre five-cylinder engine matched with an automatic transmission, the 1994 Audi Cabriolet appears to be in pristine condition inside and out.
Image Credit: Supplied

The A4 is a very established model built by Audi and it can be had in a variety of body styles from a saloon to a station wagon but before it came along, the B4-generation 80 was the German carmaker’s compact executive offering. It was so good that apart for the rich and the famous it was even fit for the royals, in this case, Diana – Princess of Wales. And now, you can buy it.

Diana, who was presented with the green convertible in 1994 by Dovercourt Audi of St John’s Wood, died after a car crash in a Paris tunnel in 1997.

The teal green convertible machine still has the license plate that was on when Diana owned it.
Image Credit: Supplied

The first wife of Charles, Prince of Wales, and mother of Prince William and Prince Henry, the late Diana is considered as one of the most influential women in the 20th century. She used to drive the car at the height of her popularity and the German carmaker revealed that sales of the model doubled thanks to Diana owning one.

The late Princess Diana's personal Audi 80 Cabriolet is heading for auction.
Image Credit: AP
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Since her tragic passing the soft-top Audi – which still has the license plate that was on when Diana owned it - has exchanged hands several times and is going under the hammer on March 28 in Birmingham, UK at the Practical Classics Classic Car and Restoration Show Sale.

From the Gomera Pearl paint finish to the Parchment leather and cream carpets, everything looks perfectly fine for a 22-year-old car.

The 22-year old Audi's cabin is finished in Parchment leather.
Image Credit: Supplied

It is estimated to fetch between £35,000 and £40,000 (Dh175,000-200,000) which would make it the most expensive Audi 80 Cabriolet of all time.

With just 22,000 miles on the clock and packing a 2.3-litre inline-five motor mated to a four-speed automatic, it produces 131 horses and 186Nm of torque.

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Aside from the car, the sale includes a “history file containing the relevant handbooks and manuals and several good-quality photos of Diana using the car,” for added authenticity.

Collectors of British Royal Family’s memorabilia will certainly want to take a look at this particular Audi.

For more car news and reviews, head to www.wheels.ae

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