Chasing Cars
ENGINE 1508cc/4-cyl/OHV POWER 47bhp@4400rpm TORQUE 74lb ft@2400rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 75mph 0-60mph 27.2sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 18-24 mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, three-speed manual MoT Exempt ODOMETER 30,247 miles
65 Ford Consul MkI 67 Mercedes-Benz SL 320 69 Mini Moke 71 Fiat 500
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
The engine fires immediately with no undue exhaust smoke. Work your way up through the three-speed column-change gearbox and acceleration is respectable enough for something with just 47bhp on tap. The hydraulic clutch works well, though the biting point is a little high. Handling is satisfyingly sharp and the suspension soaks up most road imperfections. The mechanicals behave impeccably, with no untoward noises from the gearbox or drivetrain. The alldrum brakes work effectively with no pulling, while new, well-treaded radial tyres provide decent grip.
BODYWORK CHECK
All panel gaps are even and there are no nasty surprises underneath that we could see. Most of the black paint still shines like new although there are a few chips to the left of the Consul bonnet badge and subtle evidence of paintwork repairs to the left of the chrome on top of the bonnet. The paint on the corner of the offside front wing is slightly cracked and there is a faint scratch above the chrome coachline. The chrome is complete, with only light scratching evident on the mid-section of the radiator grille. Rust-free wheel arches, gleaming hub-caps and a fanshaped exhaust complete a very tidy overall picture.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
The gauges – speedometer, fuel, water temperature, amps and oil pressure – all function as they should. The comfortable red leather front bench seat is slightly faded and cracked, but the matching doorcards are in fine condition. All four doors open and close with a satisfying clunk and the windows operate as they should. The red carpets and grey-brown cloth headlining are in exceptional condition and the EKCO valve radio – believed to be original to the car – still works. The carpeted boot is clean and dry.
UNDER THE BONNET
Lifting the bonnet reveals an honest, clean and tidy engine bay with no signs of leaks or overheating. All levels look healthy and sit around the maximum mark, while piping and wiring remains unmolested. The 1508cc engine has benefitted from a recent rebuild, during which a discrete electric fuel pump and new filter and lines were fitted. All electrics, including the lights, indicators and horn, operate correctly. The Consul comes with both the original ownership manual and a service booklet.
THE CCW VIEW
Surprisingly few Consul MkIs have survived – the flashier and more powerful Zephyr Six gets all the plaudits – so these fourcylinder base model saloons are an increasingly rare sight. This very early car is still in regular use but remains in very good condition. It looks good value for such a well-sorted car, too.