The Thames 307E is a small panel van launched by Ford UK in June 1961 [1] and based on the recently introduced Ford Anglia 105E. It replaced the Thames 300E and, like its predecessor [2] it was marketed as the Thames 5 cwt or the Thames 7 cwt van.[3][4] These names defined, in Imperial measurements, the recommended maximum load weights (approximately equivalent to 250 and 350 kg respectively) of the vehicles. Advertised load space was 73 cubic feet (2,100 L) including 12 cubic feet (340 L) beside the driver.[5]
The vans were introduced with a specially developed "commercial version" of the Anglia 105E engine, applying a compression ratio of 7.5:1 or, as an option, 8.9:1.[5] The four speed gear box also came from the latest Anglia.[5] The 5 and 7 cwt versions could be distinguished from the front by differing grill treatments. The base version had a grill of painted horizontal slats similar to that on the basic Anglia while the 7 cwt featured a full-width bright-meshed metal grill reminiscent of the Anglia deluxe.[5]
Left hand drive export versions of the 307E were designated Thames 308E.[6] The Anglia name was used for certain export markets.[7]
From October 1962 the 5cwt and 7cwt vans were also offered with the 1198cc engine from the Ford Anglia Super and these were designated as Thames 309E.[8] Left hand drive export versions of the 309E were designated Thames 310E.[6]
