Standard 10
ENGINE 948cc/4-cyl/OHV POWER 33bhp@5000rpm TORQUE 50lb ft@2700rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 70mph 0-50MPH 19sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 30-45mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed manual MoT 12 months from sale ODOMETER 39,108 miles WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
The engine is eager to start with minimal choke and clutch operation is light with a biting point at just over half travel. Although synchromesh is available on the top three gears, a smooth and firm action is necessary to avoid crunching. Steering input requires constant small adjustments above 40mph and additional braking time is necessary for the adequate drums. The suspension handles bumps with ease; body roll is apparent but on a par with cars of this period.
BODYWORK CHECK
Described as Caramel, the period pastel finish suits the car and was re-applied during an older restoration. The vendor has also recently had the bonnet area painted due to stone chips and paint peel. Touch-ins have been carried out on a small area where the offside rear quarter joins the roof, plus a couple of door edges. The screen rubbers are cracked and the door rubbers need replacing, but panel gaps are constant. Underneath is remarkably clean; no doubt repairs have been carried out,
EXTERIOR
Straight, solid Attractive patina
INTERIOR
Basic but interesting Minor work needed
MECHANICALS
Honest and basic engineering that works well
but with few small patch fixes. The front bumper looks recent compared to the one at the rear and the grille trim.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
The single dash dial and line of knobs all operate correctly. The driver’s seat base cover has split along one seam in the centre, while the roof lining would benefit from tightening on the driver’s side. Recent red carpets show no signs of wear and the original door cards look fantastic. Access to the large boot is via the folding rear seats and the spare wheel is secured separately in a lower section accessible from the outside.
UNDER THE BONNET
Lifting the bonnet reveals a tidy
bay area that would benefit some cleaning and application of black paint to the air filter housing, rocker cover and radiator top section. The engine appears original; there’s some later wiring to a modern horn but there are no oil or coolant leaks. A previous owner claims that the indicated mileage is correct, but the vendor cannot guarantee this because the history is incomplete. That said, the file confirms that the car has covered just 1000 miles since 2011 and was originally bought from Philpotts Garage in Ramsgate before spending most of its life in Kent. The stainless steel exhaust, clutch/ brake master cylinders, wheel cylinders, water pump and dampers are all recent replacements.
THE CCW VIEW
This Standard is delightful to drive and particularly interesting being the Family Ten version, which was only produced for 18 months. It’s an honest example in need of some improvement, though this would easily be within the average DIYer’s capabilities and budget. It’s priced well, too.
PROS Rarity, price, mileage, general condition CONS Split seat, tired rubber seals, partial history
BUY IT FROM Orchard Classics, Orchard Business Park, Arundel, West Sussex BN18 0GA. 01243 555595, orchardclassics.co.uk