1946 Standard 8 Drophead Coupe

From its humble beginnings in 1903, R.W. Maudslay’s Standard Motor Company produced Britain’s first economic six-cylinder model car in 1906.  The company continued to produce cars throughout the 1920s, but it was to be the Nine that turned around the fortunes for the Standard. The ‘Flying’ series was launched in 1936, offering motorists a swift, streamlined motor car, and the Flying Eight was the smallest of the siblings, launched a year before WWII. These new models featured a new frame with independent front suspension (the first UK 8hp car to offer this) and a 1021cc engine with an aluminium cylinder head. Production ceased in 1940 and the Flying Eight re-emerged in 1945 as the ‘8hp’, this time equipped with a 1009cc engine driven through a four speed gearbox and without the bonnet louvres. Offered in saloon, drophead coupe and an extremely small number of estate versions, the 8hp was produced in very low numbers until 1948, and was superseded  by new ‘Eight’ of 1953.

This appealing example is one of a few rare survivors of Standard’s post-war ‘8’ production. First registered in Chelmsford, Essex to a Claude Surgate, the little ‘8’ then passed to three further custodians, interestingly all female: Nora, Beryl and Jean! The reliable motor car has recently been enjoyed on long runs without incidents, averaging a good turn of speed, and the vendor assures us that overall, the Standard is in good, usable condition. The panel work is solid and straight, but the paintwork could be improved on should the new owner wish. The interior trim would appear to have been renewed in recent years; the seats and carpets are serviceable and the hood is both in good condition and easy to erect. All in all, we think it to be the ideal economical family classic, ideal for picnicking in the countryside!

A history file is supplied with KNO 364, which includes the RF60A registration book, the V5C registration certificate, Standard Motor Club information, data, a wiring diagram, invoices and others.

Auction Date: 7 September 2017