With the launch of its 'Flying Standard' range at the 1935 Motor Show, the Standard Motor Company, hitherto noted chiefly for the dependability of its products, showed itself capable of embracing fashionable styling as well.

Their streamlined coachwork acknowledged the increasing importance of aerodynamics in passenger car design and, far from being merely 'old wine in new bottles' the new Flying Standards were just as innovative beneath the skin, featuring all-steel construction, 4-speed synchromesh gearboxes and independent front suspension before the decade's end.

Deservedly popular, the 1,131cc sidevalve-engined Flying Nine boasted a top speed of 62mph and could return 40 miles to the gallon.

By this time Captain John Black had become Standard's Managing Director and under his stewardship the company continued to build on its reputation for producing well-engineered, reliable and keenly priced cars.

Very much less common than the equivalent 1930s Morris or Austin, this rare sur...