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Humber Sceptre Mk 2 (1965-67)

Production Total: 11,983
Recorded in UK 2024
Mk 1 & 2 Licensed= 5 SORN=3

Humber Sceptre Mk 2  (1965-67)

The Humber Sceptre Mk II—a classic gem from the swinging '60s! Let's dive into its quirks and foibles, shall we?

1. **Rust, the Silent Saboteur**: Like a persistent time-traveling villain, rust is a common adversary for most 1960s saloons. Pay close attention to the sills—they're crucial for bodyshell strength. Some Sceptres have cover sills welded over the original rotting ones, which can hide ongoing corrosion. Sneaky, right? Also, check the wheel arches—those arch lips sometimes go all frilly. If you suspect filler is playing hide-and-seek with rust holes, investigate further.

2. **Jack of All Trades (Points)**: Look for the two jacking points beneath each bumper. If they're absent or in poor condition, it's like a red flag waving at the main chassis rails, saying, "Hey, we need repair work!" Rear spring hangers and chassis outriggers can also suffer due to accumulated road muck. So, give them a thorough once-over.

3. **Fuel Tank Well Drama**: Peek into the fuel tank well within the nearside rear quarter. If moisture collects there, it's like a soggy biscuit—everything can rapidly disappear. Check the rubber drainage pipe from the fuel filler recess; if it's split or missing, rainwater will party in that problem area. And remember, filler isn't just for sandwiches—it's sometimes used to hide rust holes.

4. **Arch Enemies**: Front and rear valances can suffer, and so can the door bottoms. Rippling in these areas might indicate a dodgy skin repair. Also, there's a secret spot where the scuttle and A-post join (only visible with the front door open). Leaves and debris love to collect there, causing rot. Finally, leaking front and rear screen seals can lead to corroded roof pillars—a glass-out job to fix.

5. **Electrical Quirks**: Mark I Sceptres were fitted with overdrive as standard, but sometimes electrical gremlins mess with it. Poor earth connections or a failed relay might be behind its misbehavior. And if you're dealing with a Mark II automatic (using a Borg Warner gearbox), make sure it shifts smoothly through the gears. No jerky disco moves, please!

Now, about values: The Sceptre is like that underrated indie band—so much talent, yet not everyone knows about it. Only the crème de la crème reach the £4000 mark, while a good, usable example can be yours for less than half of that. Plus, with the Post Vintage Humber Car Club on the case, sourcing hard-to-find parts isn't harder than deciphering ancient scrolls.

So, whether you're cruising down memory lane or actually considering a Sceptre, remember: It's not just a car; it's a slice of automotive history.
*****
Generations
Ah, the **Humber Sceptre**—a name that conjures up images of British roads, tweed jackets, and perhaps a touch of nostalgia. Let's unravel the generations of this classic gem, shall we?

1. **MK I (1963–1965)**:
- The **Humber Sceptre MK I**, introduced in 1963, was a luxurious car based on the Hillman Super Minx. It had a unique roof, glass, and upper/rear bodywork that set it apart from its Super Minx and Singer Vogue cousins. Interestingly, it was originally intended as a four-door replacement for the Sunbeam Rapier but ended up launching as a Humber. The Rapier, meanwhile, continued its production with minimal changes until 1967.
- The MK I had a sportier character compared to traditional Humbers. It sat at the top of the mid-range Rootes Group cars, above the Hillman Super Minx and Singer Vogue. Equipped with twin headlights, a more powerful 80 bhp (60 kW; 81 PS) version of the 1,592 cc Minx engine, and features like disc front brakes, overdrive, and a full range of instruments, the MK I was quite the package. Later, automatic transmission became available. A slight update came with the MK IA in 1964.
- Production numbers for the MK I and IA models totaled 17,011 units¹.

2. **MK II (1965–1967)**:
- The **Humber Sceptre MK II**, introduced in 1965, sported revised front-end styling and a twin-carburetor version of the 1,725 cc engine. It continued its elegant journey until 1967.
- Performance-wise, the MK II was no slouch. According to Motor magazine (April 1966 edition), it could hit a maximum speed of 94.8 mph (mean), go from 0 to 60 mph in 12.5 seconds, and cover a standing quarter-mile in 19.5 seconds.
- Production figures for the MK II reached 11,983 units¹.

3. **MK III (1967–1976)**:
- The **Humber Sceptre MK III**, introduced in 1967, was part of the Rootes Arrow design family. It epitomized luxury, featuring wood-veneer fascia, complete instrumentation, an adjustable steering column, vinyl roof, and extra brightwork on the wheel arches and rear panel.
- Under the hood, the MK III boasted a more potent version of the 1,725 cc engine with twin carburetors, delivering 87 bhp (65 kW; 88 PS). You could choose between manual gearboxes with Laycock De Normanville overdrive or opt for an automatic transmission.
- Later Sceptres even got a closer-ratio G-type gearbox, and the J-type overdrive made its appearance from chassis numbers L3 onwards (starting in July 1972).
- The MK III carried the torch until 1976, marking the end of the Sceptre's journey.
- And yes, it continued to wear that badge of elegance—the Humber marque—despite the Rootes Group's acquisition by Chrysler in 1965.

So, there you have it: three generations of the Humber Sceptre, each leaving its tire tracks on the winding roads of automotive history.
*****
Variants
Ah, the **Humber Sceptre**—a name that evokes memories of leather seats, winding country roads, and perhaps a touch of British elegance. Let's explore the delightful variants that graced the automotive stage during the Sceptre's heyday!

1. **Humber Sceptre MK I (1963–1965)**:
- The debutante of the Sceptre family, the **MK I**, waltzed onto the scene in 1963. Picture this: a luxury car with a dash of sportiness, based on the Hillman Super Minx. It flaunted a unique roof, glass, and upper/rear bodywork—distinct from its Super Minx and Singer Vogue cousins. Imagine it as the sophisticated sibling who secretly practices dance moves in the garage.
- Originally intended as a four-door replacement for the Sunbeam Rapier (yes, the plot thickens), fate decided it would wear the Humber badge instead. The Rapier, meanwhile, continued its unassuming existence with minimal tweaks until 1967. And thus, the Sceptre inherited a more spirited character than your typical Humber.
- What made the MK I twirl with flair? Well, twin headlights (because one just wouldn't do), an 80 bhp (60 kW; 81 PS) version of the 1,592 cc Minx engine (it flexed its cylinders), and a treasure trove of features: disc front brakes, overdrive, screen washers, a reversing lamp, and a full orchestra of instruments. Automatic transmission joined the party fashionably late. The MK IA even made a cameo in 1964.
- Total production of MK I and IA models pirouetted to 17,011 units.

2. **Humber Sceptre MK II (1965–1967)**:
- The **MK II** sashayed onto the stage in 1965, flaunting revised front-end styling and a twin-carburetor version of the 1,725 cc engine. It was like the MK I had a makeover—new hair, same captivating eyes.
- Performance? Oh, it had moves! According to Motor magazine (April 1966 edition), it could hit a maximum speed of 94.8 mph (mean), pirouette from 0 to 60 mph in 12.5 seconds, and execute a standing quarter-mile in 19.5 seconds. Encore!
- The MK II gracefully exited the scene in 1967, leaving behind 11,983 admirers¹. Standing ovation!

3. **Humber Sceptre MK III (1967–1976)**:
- The MK III, introduced in 1967, was the grand finale—a derivative of the Rootes Arrow design. Imagine it in a tuxedo, sipping champagne. It embodied Humber's legacy of luxury. Picture wood-veneer fascia, complete instrumentation (because half-hearted instruments are gauche), an adjustable steering column (for that perfect driving posture), a vinyl roof (because elegance needs shelter), and extra brightwork (because subtlety is overrated).
- Under the hood, a more potent version of the 1,725 cc engine (with twin carburetors) flexed its muscles, delivering 87 bhp (65 kW; 88 PS). Manual gearboxes waltzed with either the D-type or the later J-type Laycock De Normanville overdrive. Automatic transmission? Of course, darling—it was an option.
- Later Sceptres even got a closer-ratio G-type gearbox, and the J-type overdrive joined the soirée from chassis numbers L3 onwards (starting in July 1972).
- Oh, and there's a secret encore: an estate car variant! Introduced at the London Motor Show in 1974, it came with a built-in roof rack (for picnics, naturally) and a carpeted loading floor (because elegance extends to cargo). Illuminated by an extra interior light, it whispered, "Pack your vintage luggage; we're off to the countryside!"
- The MK III took its final bow in 1976, leaving behind a legacy of sophistication and a trail of polished chrome.
*****
Engines
Ah, the heartbeat of the **Humber Sceptre**—let's lift the bonnet and explore the symphony of engines that powered this elegant classic!

1. **MK I (1963–1965)**:
- The **Humber Sceptre MK I**, making its debut in 1963, was like the opening act of a grand concert. Picture it: a luxury car with a dash of sportiness, based on the Hillman Super Minx. But here's the twist—the Sceptre had its own unique roof, glass, and upper/rear bodywork, not shared with the Super Minx or its cousin, the Singer Vogue. It was the black-tie affair of the Humber family.
- Under its polished hood, the MK I flaunted a more powerful version of the 1,592 cc (97.1 cu in) Minx engine. Imagine twin headlights winking at you—the Sceptre borrowed similar styling from the Vogue. And that engine? It flexed its cylinders to deliver a respectable 80 bhp (60 kW; 81 PS). Fancy features included disc front brakes, overdrive (for those smooth highway crescendos), screen washers, a reversing lamp (because elegance even extends to reverse gear), and a full ensemble of instruments. Later, automatic transmission joined the ensemble. Bravo!
- By the way, the Sceptre was originally meant to replace the Sunbeam Rapier (yes, the plot thickens), but destiny pirouetted, and it debuted as a Humber. The Rapier, meanwhile, continued its own production dance until 1967. Result? The Sceptre got a dash of sportiness that set it apart from traditional Humbers. A little cha-cha with history, if you will. The MK IA even made a cameo in 1964.
- Total production of MK I and IA models? A harmonious 17,011 units¹. Encore!

2. **MK II (1965–1967)**:
- The **Sceptre MK II**, arriving in 1965, was like the second movement—a refined evolution. It featured revised front-end styling, as if it had visited the tailor for a sharper suit. And under that well-tailored bonnet? A twin-carburetor version of the 1,725 cc (105.3 cu in) engine. The Sceptre MK II was all about performance and poise.
- Imagine it hitting a maximum speed of 94.8 mph (mean), pirouetting from 0 to 60 mph in 12.5 seconds, and executing a standing quarter-mile in 19.5 seconds.
- Production numbers for the MK II? A respectable 11,983 units. It bowed gracefully in 1967, leaving tire tracks on the stage of automotive history¹. Brava!

3. **MK III (1967–1976)**:
- The grand finale—the **Sceptre MK III**—entered the scene in 1967, wearing a tuxedo of sophistication. It was a derivative of the Rootes Arrow design, and boy, did it know how to make an entrance. Wood-veneer fascia? Check. Complete instrumentation? Absolutely. Adjustable steering column? Naturally. Vinyl roof? Because elegance needs shelter. And extra brightwork? Well, it's like adding a string quartet to a solo performance.
- Under its polished hood, the MK III carried a more potent version of the 1,725 cc (105.3 cu in) engine, complete with twin carburetors—delivering a respectable 87 bhp (65 kW; 88 PS). The manual-gearbox models danced with either the D-type or the later J-type Laycock De Normanville overdrive. And guess what? The J-type joined the soirée from chassis numbers L3 onwards (starting in July 1972). Automatic transmission? Oh, darling, it was an option, of course!
- And here's the encore: an estate car variant! Introduced at the London Motor Show in 1974, it came with a built-in roof rack (for picnics, naturally) and a carpeted loading floor (because elegance extends to cargo). Illuminated by an extra interior light, it whispered, "Pack your vintage luggage; we're off to the countryside!"

- The MK III took its final bow in 1976, leaving behind a legacy of sophistication and a trail of polished chrome. Standing ovation, encore, and curtain call!

So, my fellow automotive enthusiast, there you have it—the engines that composed the Humber Sceptre's symphony.
*****
Spares
Ah, the quest for Humber Sceptre spares—a noble endeavor indeed! Let's embark on this treasure hunt together, shall we?

1. **Humber Spares**:
- Our first stop is the elegantly named **Humber Spares**. Picture it: a secret chamber where vintage car parts whisper their stories. Here, you'll find spare parts not only for the Humber Sceptre but also for its distinguished relatives—the Super Snipe and the Hawk. Mark 1 and 2 Sceptres (those charming ones from 1963 to 1967) take center stage. Click your heels (or rather, your mouse) and visit their website. It's like stepping into a time capsule where quality spare parts await, ready to revive your classic beauty.

2. **MEV Spares**:
- Next, let's waltz over to **MEV Spares**. They've got a special section just for the Humber Sceptre. Clutch, brakes, hydraulics, engine, gearbox—oh, the symphony of components! And guess what? They've even got a fuel pump diaphragm repair kit (because even fuel pumps need a little TLC). Whether your Sceptre is a Mark 1, 2, or 3 (spanning 1963 to 1976), they've got your back. So, grab your pocket watch and head over to their website. It's like finding the secret entrance to the vintage car enthusiast's clubhouse.

3. **eBay's Time-Traveling Bazaar**:
- Now, let's sprinkle a bit of magic dust and step into the virtual marketplace. Yes, I'm talking about **eBay**! There, amidst the digital hustle and bustle, you'll find Sceptre parts and memorabilia being sold by enthusiasts in the UK and beyond. It's like a global treasure hunt—scroll down, and who knows what gems you'll uncover? To glimpse complete cars, just keep scrolling. It's like peeking through the keyhole of automotive history. Visit the **Old Classic Car** eBay listings.

4. **Jonnie Jumble's Aladdin's Cave**:
- Last but not least, let's visit **Jonnie Jumble**. Their shelves are stacked with classic car parts, and yes, Humber parts are in stock! Not all of them are listed online, so if you're on a quest for something specific, don't hesitate to reach out. It's like entering an Aladdin's cave where vintage treasures await. So, summon your inner explorer and explore their Humber offerings.

Remember, my fellow vintage car enthusiast, the journey is as delightful as the destination. May your search for Sceptre spares be filled with excitement, camaraderie, and perhaps a touch of nostalgia.

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