What classic was described as the 'working man's Rolls Royce'?

About 60 years ago there was a car described as a working man's Rolls Royce. I think it was front wheel drive and very nice to drive and ride in. I think it may have been a Triumph? It was just before or just after the Dolomite. I have not seen one at any shows. Can you help?

Asked on 5 August 2025 by ray-pc

Answered by Craig Cheetham
The Dolomite-based Panther Rio was often described as the 'working man's Rolls Royce' but this was rear-wheel drive. Only 38 were built so it's a very rare sight indeed. The only luxury car that was front-wheel-drive that we can think of from this era is the Wolseley 18/85 or Wolseley Six, built from 1962 to 1975. It was based on the Austin/Morris 1800/2200 models and had a 2.2-litre six-cylinder engine, plus a chrome grille and wooden dashboard. It had a great ride thanks to its fluid-filled Hydrolastic suspension.
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