In adopting the modern unitary method of body/chassis construction, Standard was late in the field when compared with its domestic rivals, some of whom had unitary models on sale in the late 1930s. Post-WW2, Morris had already introduced the Alec Issigonis-designed Minor and Austin the A30 both new unitised designs before Standard woke up and gave us the Standard Eight in 1953. A direct competitor of the Minor and A30, the Eight was entirely conventional by the standards of its day, with 803cc overhead-valve engine, independent front suspension and live rear axle. Spartanly equipped, that first Eight offered little in the way of creature comforts or embellishment, featuring sliding windows, negligible trim and access to the boot via the interior, although all of these shortcomings would be addressed by the time production ceased in 1959.