Description
In 1956, the Consul, Zephyr, and Zodiac were all restyled and launched as the “Three Graces”.
As the highest specification of three models, the MK2 Zodiac was slightly altered to distinguish it from the lesser Consul and Zephyr variants, having more elaborate tail-end styling, a different front grille and featured two-tone paint, whitewall tyres, chrome wheel-trim embellishers and gold-plated badges. All Zodiacs came with the 2, 553cc straight six cylinder engine.
As a 1957 car, this is a “Highline” variant, with a higher rear roof line than the later “Lowline” model, introduced in 1959. Other distinguishing features of the Highline variant, were round reflectors on the tail light assembly and body coloured headlamp rims, which help visually lengthen the front end of the car, making for some, a more balanced car visually, than the Lowline model, which featured chrome headlamp rims. In addition, the “Highline” variant featured a hemispherical instrument cluster, where as the “Lowline”, had a more rectangular panel.
The car comes with the rarely optioned 3 speed automatic gearbox.
The car was subject to a 5 year full “nut and bolt” restoration of the bodywork, interior and mechanical componentry.
The car has travelled just 460 miles since its restoration and is registered as an historic vehicle, so is tax and MOT exempt, although the most recent MOT (with no advisories) expired in May 2023. In addition, the car is also ULEZ exempt.
The full body restoration included replacement panels shipped in from Australia and a bare metal respray in two tone Azure Blue and White. In addition, new seals and rubbers, were also fitted, as well as new stainless steel bumpers, re-chromed trim and new badging.
Aldridge Trimming provided the stunning blue and cream leather two-tone seats and door cards and the car has been fitted with high quality new carpets, under which thick felt sound deadening has been laid.
All door furniture is in excellent condition and the rear window has been fitted with a period interior sun-blind.
All gauges and switch gear work as they should and additional gauges offering temperature, oil pressure and rev counter, offer useful additional engine monitoring over and the standard instrumentation.
The 2, 553 cc straight 6 engine is wonderfully smooth and was the subject of a complete rebuild by a specialist, as part of the restoration. Since its engine rebuild, the car has since covered just 460 miles.
As well as a full engine rebuild (with a reconditioned head for unleaded fuel), other engine related works included, the refurbishment of the vacuum pump and carburettor. In addition, upgrades included an alternator conversion, change to negative earth, a new stainless steel exhaust, coil, battery, plugs, HT leads, distributor, starter motor, radiator overhaul and new Kenlowe fan. The electrics have also been overhauled, including wiring looms. There are detailed invoices evidencing the engine works and parts replacements.
The 3 speed Borg Warner was an expensive optional extra for the car costing £187. 00 in 1957, equivalent to £5, 768 in today’s money. As part of the restoration, the gearbox was subject to a full rebuild by a specialist and operates smoothly and kicking down promptly, when required.
The suspension, provides for a plush, compliant ride, with a level of handling that belies a car of its size and age. The suspension was overhauled as needed during the restoration, which saw the fitting of uprated leaf springs and Superflex suspension bushes.
The braking system features the correct drums all round, which were all overhauled as part of the restoration. In addition, a new master cylinder and brake lines were also fitted all round.
In addition to the existing underbody protection, the entire underside and wheel arches have recently been treated to a Lanoguard Automotive corrosion prevention treatment.
The car is now offered in excellent condition and a truly exceptional example of this marque and model and all the rarer, having been factory fitted with the optional extra 3 speed automatic gearbox.
For full details and to view over 90 HD photos, please visit our website or for a chat about the car or to arrange a viewing, please call on the no. listed above.
