Maestro was the second 'recovery' model produced by BL and launched in March 1983, replacing Allegro, Maxi and Ital.

Still front wheel drive with a transverse engine, the gearbox was however placed on the end of the engine rather than beneath. Suspension was by conventional coil springs rather than Hydragas.

Common to all Maestro models was electronic ignition and an engine management system. Another much talked about feature, found on the top of the range MG model, was the electronic all-digital instrument panel, complete with a voice synthesiser which gave spoken warnings and information. This proved more irritating than popular and was soon discontinued.

This particular Maestro 1.3 was the first to roll off the production line.