Mark 3 1978 - 1980
The Mark 2 had kept the marque above water during some of the worst stages in BL's history, with build quality deteriorating drastically. The Mk2 was still physically a Mk1 with trim changes but with new management at the helm and a way forward planned for the company, money was found for a major refit of the range. The new look for the late 70's was a 'squarer' look and the restyling of the Mk3 reflected this. New body panels were produced and changes made internally to allow long-term faults to be cured, or at least attempted. New engines were introduced as the venerable 'B' series bowed out after several million years in production (!) and the equally venerable 'A' series got an update; sadly the larger engine was the 'O' series which wasn't brilliant in it's early days. The bean-counters had been busy and corners were cut which later proved to be problematical.
		Marina Mk3 saloon
Chronology September 1978: Mk3 launched with new squarer bumpers, chin spoiler, new rear lights, revamped facia in black only, printed alloy badges and driving lamps across the range with the venerable 'B' series replaced by the OHC 'O' series. Coupe body only available in 1300 form. Mk3 range now comprises: 1300 basic, L, HL coupe, saloon 1300 basic, L estate 1700 basic, L, HL saloon 1700 basic, L estate Production Figures 1978: 20,404 (Change from Mk2 to Mk3) 1979: 96,487 1980: 27,773 (End of Marina production)		Mk3 Marina Estate