Austin Sheerline (1947)

 Austin was keen to offer a luxury car again after the Second World War and the Sheerline was its take on the theme.

While not as elegant as many of its rivals, the Austin had the advantage of being significantly cheaper. It cost £1277 at launch where a contemporary Rolls-Royce was £3250. For this reason, the Sheerline found favour as cost-effective transport for many town mayors, and it was popular with the wedding and funeral trades.

The spacious rear seats offered plenty of comfort and a touch of the high life to their occupants, but the Austin’s suspension and 4.0-litre engine were not as sophisticated as the car’s pricier competitors.