A new entry-level version of the Standard Vanguard arrived in 1957, badged as the Ensign and powered by a 1670cc four-cylinder engine producing just 60bhp.
Production would last until 1961, with a 2138cc model (known as the Ensign Deluxe) taking over the following year.
This particular Ensign brochure dates from 1960, with Standard keen to promote the sheer affordability of its cheapest big saloon: “From any angle – the finest value in motoring”.
Any fears that the Ensign might be underpowered were soon dealt with, as the brochure explained about the car’s “maximum speed of 80mph”, while the enthusiastic driver could enjoy a suspension that was “firm enough to enable precise cornering”.
It might have undercut the Vanguard on price but the Ensign was still a quality machine, insisted Standard-Triumph.
