Anyone with even a modicum of automotive knowledge will know that Ford was once a class leader when it came to affordable cars — it had a knack for producing solidly engineered but uncomplicated designs at a price that even the most budget-conscious could afford. But that’s all changing, with the Ka and Fiesta now both consigned to history (and the Focus not far behind), leaving the Blue Oval with a range of crossovers and SUVs with upmarket aspirations.
It was the arrival of the Model Y in 1932 that saw Ford becoming the king of low-cost motoring. But there was more to come, with a price cut two years later seeing the Model Y (by then available in Popular guise) becoming Britain’s cheapest car – costing from just £100 thanks to improved economies of scale.
The Model Y ceased production in 1937, replaced by the short-lived 7Y. But it was via the first Anglia model – the E04A of 1939 – that Ford made even greater inroads into the cut-price family saloon market. Now, 85 years later, we can pay tribute to that top-value offering – plus all the other entry-level Fords that followed on from it.
ANGLIA E04A
Launched in late 1939, Ford’s first Anglia – the E04A – was based around the previous 7Y but now featured a protruding boot (with separate lid and extra luggage space) as well as a new-look front end. The new Anglia boasted a wide, flat grille that gave the car a grander, more grown-up appearance.
Road testers of the time were very enthusiastic about the newcomer, praising it for (amongst other things) its performance. In its April 26, 1940 issue, The Autocar
