Ford Zephyr MkIV

ENGINE 1996cc/4-cyl/OHV POWER 93bhp@4750rpm TORQUE 124lb ft@2750rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 87mph 0-60MPH 14.2sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 17-29mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed manual MoT 12 months from sale ODOMETER 20,984 miles

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

The V4 motor starts easily and quickly comes up to operating temperature without emitting any smoke or worrying noises. Handling was never the MkIV’s strong point and this one is no exception. However, the ride is comfortable, the power steering fingertip-light and the car drives straight and true with no tracking to either side. The brakes do a great job of stopping this big car in a straight line with no squeal or judder and pedal feel is good. The V4 engine performs well and acceleration is consistent throughout the rev range. The manual column shift works well and the car will get a new clutch prior to sale.

BODYWORK CHECK

The car appears to be straight with all panel gaps lining up correctly. The Mink Blue paint is in great original condition and there is no swirling or fading to speak of. There’s no evidence of rust anywhere on the car and the underneath looks solid and tidy. However, some of the chrome – and the rear bumper in particular – is looking a little tired and pitted and would benefit from some TLC or even re-chroming. The original wheels are in good overall condition with no curb marks or dings and the Nankang tyres appear evenly worn and have adequate tread depth remaining.

HOW’S THE INTERIOR?

The interior of this example is in great overall condition. The large bench seat remains firm but comfortable and there are no rips or tears in the covers. The door cards and headlining are similarly well-presented and the carpets, although in need of a scrub, are wearing well. The only real issue is the backing material behind the fuel/ temperature gauge, which has bubbled. What appears to be evidence of water ingress in the boot area needs to be kept an eye on, too, but it has not yet allowed any corrosion to take hold.

UNDER THE BONNET

The engine bay is very clean and there is no rust or repair work evident. It appears to have been well maintained, although the radiator hoses are beginning to look a little tired. Having said that, they are intact and do not leak. The radiator itself is in good condition, as are all of the belts. Suspension, steering and braking components appear to all be well looked after and all fluid levels are where they should be.

THE CCW VIEW

This usable, practical classic has bags of character and while it isn’t quite concours, is still in great overall condition and would make a fantastic show car. MkIVs are getting rare now, especially low-milers like this one. Club and parts back-up is also first rate and all that is required here is a little bit of tidying. The price looks more than fair given the Zephyr’s mileage and overall condition.