Introduced at the 1952 Earls Court Motor Show, the Mk.

IV version of Humber’s well-established Super Snipe was powered by a 4,138cc OHV straight-six engine allied with four-speed manual transmission (an automatic gearbox was optional from 1956 onwards).

A handsome three-box design with various transatlantic styling cues, the Mk.

IV was marketed to bank managers, lawyers and government officials.

Available in saloon or limousine guises, some 17,993 were sold between 1952 and 1958, but survivors now are few and far between.

Subtle updates resulted in the Mk.

IVB arriving for the 1955 model year, showing the more pronounced influence of America.

Two-tone colour schemes were now optional, divided by the new chrome strip running under the windows, and the rear number plate gained an attractive plinth.

The wood-veneer dashboard and door cappings were new features, and individual seats and automatic transmissions became optional.

Originally hailing from Australia, we understand our c...