Launched at the 1950 Motor Show, Ford's Consul and Zephyr Six broke new ground for the Dagenham firm.

Both models were of unitary construction and featured overhead-valve engines, three-speed synchromesh gearboxes and MacPherson strut independent front suspension.

Together with the range-topping Zodiac, the Consul and Zephyr were totally redesigned for 1956, emerging in Series II guise larger than before and benefiting from engines of increased displacement, in the case of the Consul's four-cylinder unit, to 1.7 litres.

Needless to say, these new engines were also more powerful, enabling overall gearing to be raised for more relaxed cruising, while the brakes were up-rated accordingly.

The key-operated combined ignition/starter switch was a 'first' for a British car.

Introduced in February 1959, a major facelift saw the MkII range emerge in 'Lowline' form, with a roof 1½" lower than before.

There were also numerous detail styling changes both inside and out, prompting Ford's publ...