Birthday Prince has a date with a diesel
By David Millward

PRINCE WILLIAM will become the proud owner of a diesel-powered car today, his 17th birthday.

 The Prince of Wales has opted for a VW Golf GT TDi for his eldest son, who has already applied for his provisional driving licence. The Golf range varies from the family hatchback to the quicker models, including the Gti.

 The Prince of Wales, who was presented with an MG on his 17th birthday, decided that it was a sensible option for his son. The car was chosen on the advice of a family friend, Edward van Cutsem. Even though Prince William is understood to have been keen on the GTi, this was ruled out. 

The Prince of Wales, who drives an Aston Martin convertible, also decided that a soft-top would be inappropriate for his son. In choosing this version of the car, he has managed to bridge the gap between performance and ecological sensitivity. Although the car selected by the Prince of Wales has the same 120mph top speed as the GTi, the turbo-diesel version will do 58 miles to the gallon, compared to 35 with the petrol version.

 Given the Prince of Wales's concern about the environment, he can take some comfort that the car's green credentials are also good. The TDi is rated in the top 10 in the league table of low Carbon Dioxide emissions.

 The car, which costs £16,325 for the three-door model and £16,945 for five doors, also includes a number of safety and anti-theft features including an alarm, an engine immobiliser and four airbags. Prince William will also have a stereo radio and computerised display-board.

 Although nobody was prepared to discuss whether any additional security devices would be fitted, it is likely, given the new owner, to have at least strengthened windows and a satellite tracking system on board. The choice of a German car could attract criticism although Diana, Princess of Wales, did drive an Audi for several years. Prince William, who can ride a motorbike and has driven cars on private land for several years, is said to be looking forward to taking to the road under supervision in the near future.

 Unlike his father, he will have to take a written examination as well as a practical test on the roads. Assuming he passes his test, insurance for a young driver behind the wheel of a performance car will be expensive, with one company quoting £2,987 for fully comprehensive cover.

 Despite his birthday, the Prince, a pupil at Eton College, will be spending a normal day at school sitting mock exams. He may also spend some time at Windsor Castle, where other members of the Royal Family are staying.

 He will also be following a family tradition in owning a fast car. The Duke of York, who started his driving career behind the wheel of a more modest Ford Escort, is also an Aston Martin owner.

 The Princess Royal, whose quick driving was also legendary, has owned several Scimitar Sabre models. The Queen, who drove an ambulance during the war, still gets behind the wheel of a Daimler Jaguar saloon or a Vauxhall Estate. Prince Philip has a Range Rover and drives a London taxi for short journeys around town.