Hi, I was driving a premier padmini (1986 Dec model) till 30.11.2003. We sold it off as we had made a decision to buy a new car, not because of the car being a Premier but only because it had done 18 years on the road and was out of production. 18 years of good reliable trustworthy service. We purchased an Alto on 22.01.04. But still I miss my premier padmini.
I have driven her since 1990 till 2003 Nov and I can swear that not once has she given me any problems. Ample space unlike todays compact cars..I have fitted 8 persons..3 infront(incl driver) and 5 in the rear and driven in the chaotic Mumbai traffic conditions till recently at an average speed of 75-80 kms ph. Rugged shock absorbers...
No problems with the engine, gears or any machinery...my only problems were with the electric fittings which I could get repaired at a measly amount. The major expenditure which I had incurred on her was of Rs 25000/- (paiting, chasis and some minor repairs). On reading all these reviews I became nostalgic.....those were the good ol days..me & my premier padmini ...Our gang used to freak out on it quite often...the new years party......picnics...out of station rides and what not...People who have not driven a Premier Padmini have truly missed out a driving experience in it self.....while driving a premier padmini u get a real feel of the car, its power and what not...
I remember in the busy streets of mumbai while driving the PREMIER PADMINI, the marutis, santros, indicas, autos, etc used to get out of my way and I used to have a nice ride...now with the ALTO its the other way round.
HAD THE CAR BEEN IN PRODUCTION...I WOULD HAVE NOT SOLD HER...NOT EVEN FOR 2 LAC OF RUPEES........ PREMIER PADMINI THE CAR FOR THE MASSES...THE CAR FOR THE CLASSES....!!!!!