Total production: 500 Author: Mike Billmore
C-V8
First introduced in November 1962 as a replacement for the 541 models, the Eric Neale styled CV8 used a new steel chassis designed by Kevin Beattie clad with a glass fibre 4 seat body with two aluminium skinned doors. The 305 bhp Chrysler 361ci V8 engine with column operated Torqueflite 3 speed automatic gearbox gave effortless performance as did the 4 wheel servo assisted Dunlop disc brakes. Front seat belts were fitted as standard in the leather interior with the innovative use of Formica as a dashboard material in place of veneer. Production continued until November 1963 whilst being replaced by the CV8 MkII.
C-V8 MkII
The CV8 MkII introduced in October 1963 was an improvement of the original with numerous detail changes to the bodywork and the addition to the chassis of Selectaride 4 way electrically adjustable rear dampers. The 330 bhp Chrysler 383ci V8 engine replaced the previous 361ci version during production continuing until July 1965 with the introduction of the CV8 MkIII.
C-V8 MkIII
The CV8 MkIII was introduced in June 1965 having many changes over the MkII. Revised styling to headlamp size and surrounding bodywork with deletion of chrome trims, lowered scuttle with deeper windscreen, new bumpers and internal boot lid hinges. Interior now has new front seats with a walnut veneered dashboard and new layout, the heating and ventilation were improved and an electrically heated rear screen and dual circuit brakes added production continued until December 1966.
C-V8 FF Prototype
Working with Harry Ferguson Developments from 1962 this car was completed in 1965 and used as a development car incorporating 4 wheel drive and the Maxaret anti lock braking system but did not see production due to the introduction of the Vignale styled Interceptor and FF.