1997 Carbodies LTi FX4 Fairway London Taxi by KGF Classic Cars, on Flickr
FOR SALE / 01733 425140 / 07976 935046 / sales@kgfclassiccars.co.uk / Peterborough /
A wonderfully nostalgic and iconic Carbodies built LTi FX4 Fairway London Taxi.
EQUIPMENT
Black rolled steel bumpers, roof mounted ‘Taxi’ beacon, removable disabled ramps, detachable side access step, front nearside suitcase storage, automatic door locks, intercom system, security partition with sliding window, fascia warning lamps, electric front windows, fan controls for cab and passengers compartments, fuel cut off switch, electric mirrors, lockable centre console storage, tilt/slide sunroof, courtesy lamps, cigar lighter, five seater passenger compartment with seatbelts, passenger controls for heater and fan, rear lockable sliding grab windows, push lamps. Upgrade items to include, chrome hubcaps, CD player.
EXTERIOR
The latest incarnation of the FX4, the Fairway was finished in a number of colours alternative to the traditional ‘Black Cab’. This example being Cherry Red looks delightful. The paintwork is bright but there are areas where previous cosmetic refurbishment is clearly evident, particularly around the rear wheel arches and the offside front wing which has been repainted with a less than perfect finish. All trim pieces, glass and lights are intact and the wonderful roof mounted ‘Taxi’ beacon can be made fully operational and tremendous fun! Altogether a delightful but far from perfect example of a true British icon.
INTERIOR
A trip in the back of this brilliant taxi is wonderfully reminiscent, with the instantly recognisable clicking sound of the automatic door locks and the incredible turning circle, you are instantly transported back to memories of many previous journeys, perhaps having wet your whistle of an evening! Many car enthusiasts have often sat in the back with wonder of what it’s like in the driver’s seat, and the experience doesn’t disappoint. The cab is surprisingly spacious and comfortable with fully operational driver aids such as electric windows and fully working intercom. The ‘traffic light’ fascia warning lamps illuminate red for fuel filter renewal, amber for energised glow plugs and green to indicate overdrive off. The green lamp no longer illuminates but the overdrive system operates perfectly. Having only retired from active London service in 2013, the interior of both the cab and passenger compartments remain clean and are remarkably wear free aside from an area of loose stitching on the rear bench seat. The wheelchair ramps and detachable side steps are neatly stored in the boot.
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
The Fairway model was introduced in February 1989 and was fitted with the legendary 2,664cc Nissan TD27 diesel engine which offered increased performance and the ultimate reliability. Upon the first turn of the key, the amber lamp indicates momentarily for pre-heat of the glow plugs allowing the engine to then burst into life instantly. The engine is surprisingly smooth and offers ample pace to keep up with modern traffic. The Borg-Warner automatic transmission delivers effortless progress and the overdrive system enables reasonably quiet cruising speeds.
WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES
The standard 16in steel wheels are shod in matching 173 R 16 tyres with good tread remaining and are dressed with tasteful chromed original bowl hubcaps which are in excellent condition. The mandatory 7.6m turning circle was not compromised when in February 1992 disc brakes were fitted to Fairway models, which on this example offer excellent stopping power.
HISTORY FILE
This beautiful taxi was first registered on 19th September 1997 and has had just four keepers from new. A certificate in the history file from the Mayor of London Office, represents the Motor Cab License held for this vehicle by London Cabbie Mr T Sales only expired on 15 May 2013! A Motor Hackney Carriage Certificate of Approval from the Metropolitan Police documents a vehicle inspection when the cab was just three days old, and an Emission System Fitment Declaration dated May 2007 are present in the history file and help to illustrate the working life of this faithful and dependable friend. This vehicle was taken in part exchange and does not meet the usual exacting standards set by KGF Classic Cars.
This fantastic traditional London Taxi is immensely fun and practical, and will appeal to the unfaltering patriot with a sense of nostalgia, and humour! A perfect advertising tool for a business too.
MOT January 2015, HPI Clear, Approved Used Car Certificate.
Click here to watch a video of this car.
1997 Carbodies LTi FX4 Fairway London Taxi by KGF Classic Cars, on Flickr
1997 Carbodies LTi FX4 Fairway London Taxi by KGF Classic Cars, on Flickr
1997 Carbodies LTi FX4 Fairway London Taxi by KGF Classic Cars, on Flickr
1997 Carbodies LTi FX4 Fairway London Taxi by KGF Classic Cars, on Flickr
1997 Carbodies LTi FX4 Fairway London Taxi by KGF Classic Cars, on Flickr
1997 Carbodies LTi FX4 Fairway London Taxi by KGF Classic Cars, on Flickr
1997 Carbodies LTi FX4 Fairway London Taxi by KGF Classic Cars, on Flickr
1997 Carbodies LTi FX4 Fairway London Taxi by KGF Classic Cars, on Flickr
1997 Carbodies LTi FX4 Fairway London Taxi by KGF Classic Cars, on Flickr