- - - - - - - - - - - 1950 - - - - - - - - - - -
The Epoch Model 20 followed on from the Model 10, and was released to the UK and Europe in 1950 with a view to provide a vehicle that owners of the Model 10 could upgrade to. Initially this car was offered with a 56HP 116cui (42kW 1900cc) straight-6, which allowed the Model 20 to be driven much more comfortably. This car found a niche for people who wanted a car that was slightly more sporty, but did not have the money or desire to own a proper sports car. It retained a forgiving and practical nature, but now was able to keep up with traffic (unlike the rugged, yet agricultural Model 10). Styling cues were used to maintain a family resemblance, although the lateral grill was replaced with a larger “box grill” for increased cooling that the six-cylinder engine required. Again, the Model 20 was offered in a single trim, which allowed Epoch to keep costs to a minimum. Two colour choices were available initially (the same Noble Green and Stormy Silver), and the vehicle was delivered for $588. This was quite a step up from the cost of a Model 10, however it could be easily argued that the Model 20 was at least twice the car, if not better.
- - - - - - - - - - - 1951 - - - - - - - - - - -
For 1951, the USA received an exclusive “USA Only” trim that arrived detailed with additional chrome, a more sporting suspension tune, upgraded interior, and a twin-carb 140cui (2300cc) variant of the engine that was good for 85HP (63.6 kW). With a weight of approximately 2315lbs (1050kg), this new engine allowed the Model 20 to accelerate up to 60mph in 14.9 seconds, making it the fastest Epoch ever built.
Although this US version cost Epoch an approx $100 extra to make, it was decided that it would not be economically viable to import multiple models, and an up-spec trim would cater better to US tastes. This model also came standard in “Atomic Red”, which was an exclusive colour to the US market.
UK and European markets were offered the upgraded engine and suspension tune option in late 1951 for an additional $100, although this remained visually identical to the standard model, without the upgraded interior or chrome accents.
Whilst the handling and comfort of the Model 20 left a lot to be desired, the general reception in the USA was very positive, with sales surpassing expectations by a fair margin. Criticised for the uncomfortable ride and vague steering, along with handling that set a new benchmark in understeer (rivalled only by the Sinistra Emperor Mk.2 - a front-wheel-drive behemoth), these aspects were overlooked by the market, which saw unrivalled value and faultless reliability.