Classic Premier Padmini Resto-Modded Beautifully
When we say Premier Padmini, most likely the image that comes to your mind is of the “Kaali Peeli” taxi from Mumbai, right? Well, most people will say yes. However, recently we came across the images and videos of a Premier Padmini which actually looks like the British classic legend, the Mini Cooper. This particular Padmini has been resto-modded to perfection and looks absolutely stunning with its classy upgrades.
Beautifully resto-modded Premier Padmini
These videos and images of the Premier Padmini resto-mod have been shared on Instagram by Mr. Branthan on their page. We can note that this particular Premier Padmini is finished in the classy shade of deep emerald green color. It is most definitely an aftermarket color, as the company did not offer this color originally. Apart from this color, the sedan has also been given an aftermarket body kit.
This kit comprises flared wheel arches on the front as well as rear fenders. Additionally, the chrome strip on the side profile adds to the classy appearance of this sedan. Speaking of the side profile, the main highlight of the side profile is the aftermarket alloy wheels. These are retro-style alloys which have a beadlock pattern that gives them a unique touch. They have also been wrapped in low-profile tyres.
Additionally, the owner has most likely added aftermarket coilovers to lower the vehicle. With this alloy wheel and coilover setup, this particular Premier Padmini gets a lowered and perfect stance. The owner has also painted the roof and ORVMs of this sedan in white color, which gives it a perfect contrasting dual-tone look. Overall, this is a very clean and classy-looking project car.
Premier Padmini: A true icon
As mentioned above, the Premier Padmini is an iconic Indian sedan. It became extremely popular in the 1980s and 90s when it was being used as the “Kaali Peeli” taxi. The Premier Padmini was based on the Fiat 1100D, which was originally launched back in 1962. Following this, in 1964, Premier Automobiles Ltd. (PAL) started assembling the car under license from Fiat in Kurla, Mumbai.
This model was initially sold as the Fiat 1100D. However, it was then rebranded in 1974 as the Premier Padmini. For those who may not be aware, the name “Padmini” was inspired by Rani Padmini. She was a legendary Indian queen, and this name gave the vehicle a more indigenous identity, which helped it in becoming the dream car of many Indians.
Powering the Premier Padmini was a 1089 cc inline-4 cylinder petrol engine. It was capable of producing power in the range of 40 to 50 bhp and 71 Nm of torque. It could reach a top speed of approximately 120–130 kmph, and transmission duties were handled by a 4-speed manual gearbox. Initially, the gear lever of this car was column-mounted. However, in the later models, it was mounted on the floor.
The Premier Padmini came with an independent coil spring with wishbone front suspension and leaf springs with live axle. Early cars used to get drum brakes, which were then switched to disc brakes in the later models. At the time, it did not come with power steering. It also missed out on an air conditioning system, power windows, and other basic amenities.