MOTORING NOTES

Franklin Times, Volume XXVIII, Issue 32, 22 March 1939, Page 3

MOTORING NOTES

NEW FORD “PREFECT TEN”

A SURPRISINGLY BIG CAR

LATEST MODELS AVAILABLE

A new Ford model is always something ol' an event in (lie motoring world and the new Ford Prefect “Ten” recently announced, is no exception. New streamlined beauty, really spacious seating, good riding, brilliant performance and a high standard of appointments will make the Ford “Prefect” a very popular “Ten.” Imposing New Lines The first thing noticed on the new Ford “Prefect Ten” is the pleasingfrontal appearance of advanced design. A new departure for the light car field is the lift-up type bonnet hinged at the rear and opening up to : give ready accessibility to the engine. If is easy to handle, very rigidly constructed, and is secured in position by a distinctive radiator ornament. The radiator cap is located beneath the lid. The bumpers are of much strengthened straight design and both front and rear bumpers extend the full width of the car. Dual windscreen wipers are mounted at the foot of the windscreen and can be parked right out of sight of the driver. Inward-curving door handles are an excellent safety feature, and just above them is a longsweeping chromium strip extending the full length of the car, and leading the eye downwards towards the streamlined tail. Horizontal louvres with the lines, continued along the bonnet strike a further note of distinction. Exceptionally Good Performance The Ford “Ten” has always been noted for its lively performance, and the “Prefect” enhances this reputation. The efficient design of the famous Ford “Ten” engine gives rapid acceleration and quiet, effortless speed. This fine performance is achieved with low running and upkeep costs. Light steering, a smooth clutch, and easy gear changing are among a host of other features. Petrol Economy in Severe Test A brand new Ford “Prefect Ten” was recently run from Wellington to Masterton and back over the Rimutaka Hill with a load of 572 pounds, including the driver, and at an average speed of 30 to 35 miles per hour. On this trip the petrol consumption obtained was 37,66 miles per gallon. Attractive Interiors In the new Ford “Prefect Ten” attractiveness, roominess and comfort leave nothing to be desired. The dashboard is a handsome plastic moulding harmonising in colour with . the other.interior fittings. It includes a large enclosed glove locker, clock, concealed ash-tray, and full-vision instruments. The handbrake lever is readily accessible, being mounted under the dash. Other appointments and equipent include a wide shelf -l : ° u behind7hT7e?rr-§ea4;- “Ur pockets, two ash-trays :.i the rear compartment, roof light with pillar switch, rear blind with remote control, sun visor with vanity mirror, and sellcancelling direction indicators with steering wheel control. Both seats are instantly ; djust-able. Roominess and Comfort There is generous legroom, headroom and eJbowroom with the Prefect “Ten.” Point immediately noticed as you enter the car are the wide doors giving ample room to get in and out, the low floor without I‘oolwells, the deep restful seating and tlie perfection of the tailoring and interior finish. It is pleasing to note that only 100 per cent New Zealand materials arc used in Hie attractive upholstery. The famous Ford “Centre-poise” system of weight distribution and suspension gives the car unusually good riding qualities. Two grown-ups and a child can sit comfortably in tire wide rear seat. A 6-foot passenger lias plenty of legroom and headroom. Legroom is increased by the tubular frame front seat construction. All door windows open, and ventilation is further improved by cowls in the body sides acting as air extractors. Self-lubricating and double-acting hydraulic shock absorbers give splendid riding over all classes of roads. The outside luggage compartment at the rear provides ample accommodation and the exterior lid has a new neat locking handle. The spare wheel is accommodated conveni- ! ertly in a separate locker below. IVlany Safety Features The welded all-steel body construction of the new Ford “Prefect Ten” provides the strongest, safest and most silent type of body-work. The safety- 35 glass windscreen gives an excellent ® view of the road. The Ford “Prefect. Ten” braking is of the fully compensated self-energising type and is one of the finest systems used on any car of this size. If gives smooth certain control with light pedal pressure. Easy Rflaintenance Servicing, cleaning, and adjustment are rendered as easy as possible. The

wheels are of the easy to clean type. The free use of oil-less bearings and bushes reduces maintenance to a minimum and the valves are permanently adjusted and precision set. TOO Per Cent English, Built in N.Z. The New Ford “Prefect Ten” is manufactured in England of 100 per cent English materials, and completely

built-up in New Zealand at the modern Ford Factory at Lower Hutt, Wellington.

Anyone considering a 10 horsepower car should certainly not overlook seeing and driving the new Ford Prefect ‘Ten.”