STANDARD BIG 9 MKIII
ENGINE 1287cc/4-cyl/SV POWER N/A TORQUE N/A MAXIMUM SPEED 52mph 0-60MPH N/A FUEL CONSUMPTION 30-34mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed manual MoT Exempt ODOMETER 3321 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
This car has been fitted with an electric starter, so the motor fires easily with a push of the button, idles quietly and easily holds higher revs. Although small by modern standards, the Big 9 feels large on the road. It’s a refined cruiser, the ride is smooth and composed; it doesn’t bounce or wobble the way some pre-war cars do and the steering is accurate with no play. The car goes where it is pointed without wandering or tramlining and the steering wheel has a sturdy feel to it and takes some heft to manoeuvre at lower speeds. Acceleration is best described as gentle and the non-synchromesh gearbox demands double de-clutching. It’s quite easy on the way up but downchanges take a little more practice. The brakes function exactly as intended, but aren’t terribly strong for such a heavy car.
BODYWORK CHECK
There is a full photographic history of the Standard’s bodyoff, bare metal restoration. This was some years ago, now, but the car remains in near-perfect condition. The smooth black paint has a deep shine to it and it’s almost completely free of chips and blemishes. Body panels are straight and corrosion-free, and there is new rubber around the vehicle, including the running board treads. The Dunlop tyres appear new, but the wire wheels look hand-painted. The chrome is also exceptional – the large radiator shell and four huge headlamps are beautiful with no pitting. The car also features a (working) sliding sunroof.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
The interior was refurbished when the car was restored and so is perhaps predictably in stunning condition. The red leather is unmarked, with barely a crease in the material, and no sagging or stretching, and the unmarked carpets look like new. The timber effect dashboard is actually faux wood, but it’s in fine shape and the dials set into it all work as they should. It may be narrow, but there’s a vast amount of headroom and legroom for rear seat passengers is very good. All occupants get the luxury of wind-up windows, too!
UNDER THE BONNET
Access to the engine is rather tight and involves turning the winged bonnet mascot aside and lifting the centrally-hinged bonnet. The overhauled engine bay is clean and smart and looks original and periodcorrect, with just some flaking paint discernible on the iron block. There is no sign of accident damage or evidence of leaks anywhere.
THE CCW VIEW
With a wealth of history and a thorough and well-documented restoration in its past, this Standard is in extremely good condition and drives just as it should. It’s easily one of the best around for sale.