The Ford Prefect was produced by Ford UK between 1938 and 1961 as an upmarket version of the Ford Popular and Ford Anglia small family cars. It was introduced in October 1938 and remained in production until 1941.

Returning to the market post the war in 1945 and was offered until 1961. Like its siblings, the car became a popular basis for a hot rods, especially in Britain, where its lightweight structure and four-cylinder engines appealed to builders.

This particular example was purchased new from University Motors London (hence the UML registration) by a Royal Navy Commander in August 1949. The car then passed on to his son who maintained it as a cherished family heirloom.

It has very low mileage and is dry stored so it is in almost time-warp condition in terms of originality. The current (and third) owner recently purchased the vehicle with the intention to return its former glory but has had to change his plans hence the car finds itself for sale for just the second time in 70 years!

There is a decent amount of paperwork with the vehicle dating all the way back to the original purchase invoice at the dealer!

There is also some age related paraphernalia such as fuel ration stamps which would have been required after the war. There are also old servicing records with hand written notes to go with the vehicle.

A number of manuals and handbooks and a number of receipts for works carried out.

The interior of this vehicle is very original and largely complete bar a few small carpet panels. It has the original wooden dash and vinyl seats that are both in decent condition.

There is some wear to the steering wheel and the covers that sit on the inside of the rear arches.

The exterior is in decent shape with a number of basic marks as to be expected with a vehicle of this age. Overall the paint is tidy with one notable crease in the rear drivers side arch.

The car sits on its original steels which do have some surface corrosion.

Mechanically the cars 1200cc engine runs ok and could probably do with being driven a bit more. It starts on the button and drives well. It has a brand new 6V battery installed.

The Ford Prefect has a classic late 40s style to it and it was billed as a slightly more upmarket version of the Ford Pop. Today, due to its popularity with hot rod builders it is quite unusual to see an original unmolested version.

It won't set any speed records but it is a very sought after classic that is still very collectible today. 

This is a low mileage, low owner car which is 99.9% original and comes with a fascinating history. It has to be worth looking at.