From New Zealand to Orkney: Why We Brought This Classic Car Halfway Around the World
Cathleen Hourie has always had a passion for classic cars, particularly the iconic Austin 3-Litre. Her affinity for this vehicle dates back to her first boyfriend, who introduced her to it. Last summer, when she discovered a 1970 model for sale online, she was excited—only to find out it was located in New Zealand. However, distance wasn’t a challenge for seller Hans Compter, who took the remarkable step of personally delivering the car to Cathleen in Orkney.
– A Journey Like No Other:
– The 86-year-old Dutchman had the Austin shipped to the Netherlands before embarking on the extensive journey to Orkney with it on his vintage Opel Blitz truck.
– I got over the boyfriend, but I never got over the car, Cathleen shared during her interview with BBC Radio Orkney.
– Originally acquired by her then-boyfriend, the Austin became a symbol of nostalgia for Cathleen, who admits to having owned and lost three others over the years. Now, she frequently searches for Austin 3-Litre for sale online.
– The Car’s Unique Appeal:
– The standout mulberry-colored Austin that caught Cathleen’s eye is part of an expansive collection that Hans has curated in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand.
– Self-described as a car idiot, Hans has dedicated a lifetime to restoring classic vehicles. When Cathleen initially inquired through his website, PreWarCar, he quickly responded, much to her surprise.
– The Challenge of Delivery:
– Hans divides his time between New Zealand and the Netherlands. After sending the Austin to Rotterdam, he repaired it in his workshop, then transported it to Orkney using his vintage truck.
– I had never been to the north of Scotland and wanted to see it, Hans said. However, an oversight in his travel plans turned a single day trip into a two-day adventure, covering roughly 400 miles from Newcastle to the Scrabster ferry port.
– Navigating the Unexpected:
– The journey posed its challenges, including a near-disastrous encounter at Berriedale Braes in Caithness. Misjudging a pull-off as a lay-by, Hans found himself stuck in a gravel escape bed. After an hour of uncertainty with a queue of up to 20 vehicles behind him, a helpful driver came to his rescue.
– A Dream Come True for Cathleen:
– After paying a significant sum for the classic car—including delivery—Cathleen expressed her joy: I’ve been grinning since Hans arrived. Austin manufactured fewer than 10,000 of these cars, and now only about 30 are still on the road.
– The 55-year-old vehicle is in remarkable condition: It’s just lovely. I’m really pleased with it.
Hans believes Cathleen can enjoy the Austin for many more years to come. I don’t see why you couldn’t use it for the next 50 years easily,” he said.
The journey of bringing this classic car from New Zealand to Orkney is not just a tale of distance, but a celebration of passion and a love for vintage automobiles. Cathleen’s story reminds us that the heart’s desire for classic cars can truly span the globe.