Lot details
Registration No: MAS 841
Chassis No: C692452
Mot Expiry: Sept 2006

Introduced in December 1948, the new E493A Ford Prefect owed much to its pre-WW2 E93A predecessor. Based around a similar transverse leaf-sprung ladder-frame chassis, it was powered by the same 1172cc four-cylinder sidevalve engine mated to three-speed manual transmission. Sporting a handsomely restyled four-door saloon body complete with front-wing integrated headlamps and a fresh radiator grille design, it utilised 6-volt electrics plus vacuum operated windscreen wipers. Laid out in the traditional manner, its interior boasted a well stocked bakelite dashboard and two-tone upholstery. Immensely popular some 192,000 were made over the course of its five year production run (though, today survivors are comparatively scarce).
Finished in beige-grey with red over fawn vinyl upholstery, this particular example is variously described by the vendor as being in good (electrical equipment, wheels / tyres), very good (engine, gearbox, chassis, interior trim) or excellent (bodywork, paintwork) condition. Coming directly from the estate of the late Gerry Marshall, this 'sit-up-and-beg' Prefect was reportedly a particular favourite. Only acquired in 2004, his affection was no doubt partially inspired by its unusual history file which contains such original documents as the purchase receipt, first Road Transport & General Insurance certificate and pre-delivery order / sales agreement. Although initially pampered, the E493A had fallen into a state of disrepair by the time RJ Marshall (no relation) purchased it in January 1981. Reputedly a chief engineer with the Ford Motor Company, he had the Prefect shipped to the States following his transfer there in 1982 so that he could complete its exacting restoration. Returning to the UK some fourteen years later, the characterful Ford remained in dry storage until early 2003 when it was re-commissioned for the road. Re-registered as MAS 841 in April that year, it is currently SORN registered but possesses a valid MOT certificate until September 2006. Given a brief run prior to going into pre-sale storage (December 2005), it is offered for sale with history file (workshop manual, parts list, instruction books, lubrication chart, winter starting / running-in booklets plus the aforementioned paperwork etc), two under bonnet tool pouches, spare engine and a dust cover