Hurricane Lancaster Typhoon Whitley 4 light Whitley 6 light Utility Coupe Station Coupe Tempest   Chassis only Limousine Landaulet Drop-head coupe   2,606 3,597 1,701 2,303 279 717 1,022 6 (The Tempest was a 4 door version of the Typhoon) 114 122 2 1 (by Hooper)

A total of almost twelve and a half thousand chassis' fitted with the various bodies mentioned above were produced during the eight or so years of production. Known survivors world wide of all the models number 921 as at January 2004.

THE CHASSIS
Other than the Limousines etc all the models were based on the same chassis which is a strong cruciform lay-out incorporating independent front suspension via longitudinal torsion bars. Additional dampers were added to the front suspension of those cars being exported and eventually became standard fitment on all models. The brakes (except on the Limousines which has a fully hydraulic Lockheed system) are Girling hydro-mechanical. The front leading/trailing self adjusting shoes are operated via a "floating" master cylinder which in turn pulls on a system of rods to apply the rear mechanical brakes. This design offers a fail safe operation should the hydraulic system develop a leak.

THE ENGINE
The range was initially powered by a 16hp (2 litre) engine; but this was revised to 18hp (2.3 litre) in 1949 and gradually introduced to all models. The in-line 6 cylinder OHV engine is of a long stroke and consequently very flexible to drive. The valves are operated via hydraulic tappets although towards the end of the model run the suppliers (Lockheeds) ceased production of these units and solid tappets were introduced. The increased capacity of the 18hp engine is achieved with a larger bore size and uses wet sleeve cylinder liners. The power increases from 70bhp to 75bhp and torque from 96lbs.ft. to 108lbs.ft., a significant improvement.

THE GEARBOX
Two gearbox options were available, a conventional four speed manual box with synchromesh on 2nd 3rd and top, and a Wilson preselector box. The latter is a very interesting unit developed pre-war by the Self Changing Gears company, as its name implies a gear is selected in advance via a hand lever and then the change pedal (in-lieu of the conventional clutch pedal) is depressed to complete the engagement. Smooth fast changes are possible and versions were used on military Tanks, London Transport buses and a variety of sports and racing cars produced by other companies.

ON THE ROAD
By 21st century standards the cars are low geared but are quite capable of coping with conditions on modern main roads, but less so with those prevailing on motorways. A number of manual gearbox cars have been retro-fitted with overdrive units and this makes for more restful driving at higher speeds. Unleaded petrol can be used with a suitable additive and consumption in the range 20 - 25 mpg is achievable depending on road conditions and driving style. Brakes are powerful if properly maintained but the limitations of drum brakes should always be recognised in very hilly country.