1957 Ford Consul Mk II Saloon

Hugely popular, the Fifties and early Sixties Fords were flamboyant and stylish, appealing as much to the middle classes as they did to the young and trendy. First appearing at the London Motor Show of 1950, the Consul was Ford’s attempt to get a foothold into the British saloon car market. The attempt was a resounding success due to the Consul’s modern technology and styling. The Mk II Consul arrived in 1956 alongside the Zodiac and Zephyr, and were collectively known as the ‘Three Graces’. The Mk II was powered by a four cylinder 1.7 litre engine, but shared much of its updated styling with its siblings, which was inspired by Ford’s American models of the era, the Fairlane and the Thunderbird.

This example was the subject of an expensive renovation in 2012. We are informed that the previous owner invested £6600 in parts alone and the paintwork was restored to an ‘Americanised’ custom look (probably to recapture the owner’s youth!); however, if the new custodian so wishes, returning the Consul to a two-tone finish should prove not to be a too onerous undertaking. That aside, we understand the mechanics to be first rate, with most components either rebuilt or replaced; we are told that this included the engine, gearbox, rear axle and steering. Recent new Radial Ply tyres have also been fitted. The interior, the upholstery and importantly the headlining, have all been renewed to an excellent standard by the current custodian.

The smart and head-turning Consul is supplied with the V5C registration certificate, an instruction book and a list of major works carried out. 

Auction Date: 2 June 2016