1950 Standard Vanguard 2.1 from Australia and New Zealand

Summary:

Rugged and reliable classic

Faults:

Blew an oil pipe due to age and fatigue

General Comments:

I would highly recommend as a classic vehicle choice - parts are easy enough to obtain

Vanguards are probably the most underrated classic car; mine will cruise easily with modern traffic, especially if you can cope with no power steering, electric windows and need something to get you around. These are great cars, although make sure you know how to use a grease gun.

Had mine for 30 years and was using it as an everyday driver; fuel consumption with overdrive was around 600km for 25 litres so affordable to run.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 13th June, 2026

1950 Standard Vanguard 2.0 litre gas from North America

Summary:

Here is a very high quality car beneath the rather curious styling

Faults:

I have had minor difficulties with the starter motor. But this was remedied with a bit of cleaning and adjusting.

General Comments:

This car has been a real serendipity. I acquired it on a bit of a whim, and never expected to enjoy it so much.

Although it is over half of a century old, I use it very regularly as serious transport, and it has been as reliable as it has entertaining. And in spite of it's somewhat ungainly looks, it actually handles very respectably. Certainly it is no Aston Martin, but neither is it a total oxcart.

Nearly every one that studies it closely, comments on the obvious quality of the components, and the surprising spaciousness of the interior.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 12th October, 2002

8th Jan 2009, 20:02

Very nice to hear how our British quality cars have found their way around the World! If you want to see an ex-military or if you are a military veteran come to the South of England rallies. You may be lucky to see a Standard-Triumph 1960 Ensign Estate ex-RAF No. 90AB84 a unique RAF Staff car presently being repaired in workshop after taking flak whilst parked last May 2008. Hopefully she will be finished in time for the 2009 Dorset Steam Fair and the War and Peace show etc. Apart from downtime for service and repair this vehicle has been roadworthy ever since it was sold of from the RAF in 1969 at Coventry. A grand old lady improved by having the latest 2138cc Engine (the type later found in the TR4) and Overdrive gears 3 and 4.

Member of the Invicta Military Vehicle Preservation Society.

1952 Standard Vanguard Popular 1.5 from UK and Ireland

Summary:

A classic workhorse

Faults:

Too many to mention - just thought it may be of interest for the site, and other readers.

Nothing major - water pumps, brake squeal etc.

But then - one really mustn't compare this motor to modern cars.

General Comments:

Bought the car brand new in 1950s, take it out in the Yorkshire Dales when the weather is fine, and only in Spring/Summer. Certainly looks the part, and always turns heads these days.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 28th August, 2002

16th Jul 2006, 23:20

Nothing special just that my grandfather bought a vanguard new in 1950 and sold it in 1978 still nothing done to the motor. Top stuff hey.