1956 Ford Popular 103E
ENGINE 1172cc/4-cyl/SV POWER 30bhp@4000rpm TORQUE 461b ft@2400rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 62mph 0-60MPH 58.2sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 36-40mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, three-speed manual MoT Exempt ODOMETER 42,235 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
This most basic of the Ford range from the mid-’50s starts from cold with minimum fuss. The gearbox takes a little getting used to – first gear lives where you’d expect second to be, with reverse where first would normally be – but the clutch bites at the halfway point. It’s not a classic for late braking; the rods and shoes work well but they are no match for the later hydraulic systems. Steering is precise with little play, and while the suspension can make the ride a little bouncy over rough surfaces, you can’t help but smile after just a few minutes behind the wheel.
BODYWORK CHECK
The deep black paintwork has been well preserved following its restoration in the early 1990s, though paperwork suggests that this 103E was originally fawn. There’s one tiny dent and a stone chip on the nearside front wing and the paint has cracked slightly along the nearside roof guttering, with a couple of touch-ins on the windscreen pillar and offside front wing. There’s no evidence of corrosion on the underside and new rubber seals secure all the glass, with just a tiny bloom in the corner of the windscreen. The wheels present very well and the chrome bumpers – a later addition – adding to the overall impression of a solid, bright and very attractive ‘sit up and beg’ Ford.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
Recently fitted red seat covers and trim grab your attention, with original door furniture showing slight patina on the handles. The dashboard display behind the Bakelite steering wheel comprises just three gauges (all of which work correctly) and a series of pull knobs set within a black sheet of steel. The windscreen has a sticker with a reminder of the maximum speed recommended when this Popular left the showroom. Both window winders operate correctly and the Bakelite door caps are in excellent condition, but it’s worth noting a small hole that’s been worn into the carpet next to the transmission tunnel.
UNDER THE BONNET
The centre-hinged bonnet opens to reveal a very clean block wearing its original green paint and a bay area and bulkhead fi nished in a deep gloss black. There are no signs of oil or coolant leaks and a host of parts have been recently fi tted, including the radiator, fuel pump, ignition leads and battery. The history fi le contains a letter confi rming a recorded mileage of 28,642 in March 1993, post-restoration, a buff log book, old invoices and a selection of photos.
THE CCW VIEW
Superbly maintained both mechanically and visually, this 103E oozes nostalgia. Although occasionally challenging in modern traffi c, it is a joy to drive – and perfect for show outings.