The 1903 single cylinder Motor Victoria was the first Standard car, made by R W Maudslay in Coventry. This was soon replaced by larger cars and, in 1906, the company made its first six-cylinder car, a type of engine that was rapidly becoming fashionable.

As none of the earlier models of Standard car are known to exist, this very grand Roi-des-Belges tourer is believed to be the oldest surviving example. Originally exported to Australia, it was found derelict on a tobacco farm near Wangaratta, Victoria.

The Standard Motor Co. in Australia acquired this car and had it completely restored. In 1958 the car was shipped back to Britain and registered with the apt and well-known registration mark SMC 1.

On Loan to Coventry Transport Museum