1956 Ford Consul Mk I Saloon

At the end of WWII hostilities, the Ford Motor Company found itself lagging behind the competition in providing a modern family saloon. Thus it fell to the American drawing office under George Walker to provide a modern alternative to the V8 Pilot, which could be affordable and easy to run in a struggling economy which had suffered rationing and shortages. The Ford Consul MkI appeared at the 1950 Motor Show. The Americanised lines were certainly evident but up to date technology was also incorporated in the new unitary construction. Also new was the 1508 cc four cylinder engine, producing 47bhp, with overhead valves, and an hydraulic clutch. The three speed gearbox was operated by a column change to make the most of the bench seating to front as well as the rear. New to the marque as well was the Macpherson strut independent front suspension. Performance figures were given as top speed 72mph, 0-60mph in 28secs and fuel consumption of 26mpg. Not as sporty as its 6 cylinder engine Zephyr siblings, the simple Consul was nonetheless reliable and comfortable, which should well suit the current classic car enthusiast currently concerned at the prospect of an unreliable future.

This rather super Consul resided in Greater London before finding its way to its current custodian’s garage in deepest Dorset. We are informed that the motor car is in lovely order; the bodywork and paintwork is virtually concours and difficult to fault, especially when one considers the high gloss black paint finish which will show the slightest defect.

The upholstery is described as very good, as is the floor covering, which is understood to have been replaced in recent years. The Consul is equipped with a sun visor, a sign post lamp, a radio and double front auxiliary lamps. The vendor has carried out a comprehensive programme of mechanical work to the motor car, including the fitting of a new electronic ignition, a new wiring loom, a new headlamp switch, a new speedometer cable, new road springs and new hub caps. We understand that the radiator has recently been re-cored, and that the fuel pump has been overhauled with a repair kit. The Ford is apparently in very good order and has proven to be a reliable companion on journeys.

The history file contains the V5C registration certificate, the original instruction book, invoices from the current ownership, and MOT history. Also supplied are some spare parts.

SOLD