Standard Vanguard Phase 1
Originally uploaded by Dr. Keats
In 1947, as a gesture to post-war austerity, the Standard Motor Company adopted a one-model policy. The outcome of this policy, which lasted through to 1953, was the Standard Vanguard Vanguard as seen here in Phase I form.
Thoroughly modern in its day, the car reflected current American styling and was a standout model in a sea of upright radiator grilles and flowing mudguards. The original prototype featured a 1.8 litre engine that proved to be a little under-powered, and the production car came fitted with Standard's 2088cc four-cylinder wet-liner engine.
Laycock de Normanville overdrive was offered from 1950, and a new grille, along with a lower bonnet line, arrived in 1952. As well as the saloon, an estate car was also offered, and a utility (pickup) version was built in Australia. Although extinct today, a convertible model Vanguard was produced by Imperia for the Belgian market only.
Engine: 4-cylinder OHV engine, 2088cc
Power output: 68bhp
Bore/Stroke: 85mm, 92mm
Compression: 6.7:1
Gearbox: 3-speed column manual shift with synchromesh on all ratios
Brakes: Hydraulic drums 9" all round
Top speed: 78.7mph
0-60mph: 21.5 seconds
Fuel consumption: 22.9mpg (12.3L/100km)
Wheelbase: 2388mm
Length: 4215mm
Width: 1753mm
Height: 1626mm
