The Ford Popular, also known as the Ford Pop, was a popular car produced by Ford in the United Kingdom from 1953 to 1962. While it was a basic and no-frills vehicle, there were indeed special editions and variants of the Ford Popular that were released during its production run.
One of the notable special editions was the Ford Popular 100E Popular Plus, introduced in 1959. This variant featured upgrades and improvements over the standard Popular, appealing to customers looking for a slightly more refined driving experience. The Popular Plus came with an improved interior, including better seats and larger windows for increased visibility. It also featured a higher-compression engine, providing a slight power boost compared to the standard model.
In addition to the Popular Plus, the Ford Popular also saw the release of the Ford Popular Sports, a sportier version aimed at enthusiasts. Introduced in 1955, it featured a modified body design and performance enhancements. The Sports variant included features such as bucket seats, a floor-mounted gear lever, and a revised suspension setup for better handling. It was powered by a 1172cc engine fitted with twin SU carburetors, providing improved acceleration and top speed.
Another interesting variant of the Ford Popular was the Ford 5Cwt Van, introduced in 1954. Designed as a practical commercial vehicle, it featured a full metal rear body with a large loading space. The 5Cwt Van was largely based on the Popular chassis and drivetrain, providing economical and reliable transportation for small businesses.
While these special editions and variants of the Ford Popular offered added features and improvements, it is important to note that the essence of the car remained true to its original purpose – providing affordable and dependable transportation for the masses. The Ford Popular, regardless of its version, was renowned for its simplicity, durability, and ease of maintenance, making it a beloved vehicle for many British motorists.
In conclusion, the Ford Popular did have special editions and variants that offered various upgrades and enhancements. From the Popular Plus, with its improved interior and engine, to the sporty Ford Popular Sports and practical 5Cwt Van, these iterations added more options to cater to different needs and preferences. Despite these variations, the Ford Popular remained a reliable and affordable car, capturing the hearts of many drivers during its production years.