Taking a look back at the original muscle car- HM Contessa

Photo Credit: unknown

Hindustan Motors was once a big name in the Indian car market. Along with churning out the evergreen Ambassador, they also brought out the Contessa, which quickly became a preferred luxury sedan for HNWIs in the country. Arriving in the year 1984, the Contessa was highly regarded by owners and enthusiasts until it bid goodbye in the year 2002. Called as India's first muscle car or even limousine, the Contessa also came with several possibilities for modifications, which you will now find strewn all over the internet! The original version was based on the 1976 Vauxhall VX Series, which had already created a stir with its unique design.

The Contessa had blue, black, red, and white colour choices at the time, along with muscular design components including a long hood and black grille, along with a bolder stance. There were rectangular headlamps or twin-pod circular lights, whichever the customer opted for. It also came with power windows, a unique feature back then, while offering a whopping 600 litres of boot space. The interiors were equipped with a classy wooden dashboard, great air conditioning, central locking, premium carpets, an audio system, anti-slip seat covering, a central armrest and many other luxury features.

The Contessa had a 1.8 litre 4ZB1 four-cylinder petrol engine making 85 hp and 135 Nm along with a 2.0 litre 4FC1 Isuzu diesel engine that makes 55 hp and 107 Nm. There were 5-speed manual transmission systems for both versions. The Contessa came for a hefty price of Rs. 4.84-5.42 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) back then and was a premium vehicle, targeting those desiring something upscale in comparison to the Ambassador and Padmini vehicles.

The Hindustan Motors Contessa was truly one of the most luxurious, efficient and reliable cars of its time, standing out for its attractive and stylish design. The Contessa deserves a special mention for the plush ride it offered, along with the muscle-car-esque styling.