1937 Morgan Flat Rad

Highlights

  • Rare Morgan "Flat-Rad
  • One of just 1,720 examples of this model built - of which only 36 are still known in France
  • Re-engined with a Triumph Herald engine
  • Fully restored in the UK in the 2000s by the British owner at the time.

The Appeal


The 4/4 was a radical departure into the motor industry for the small Malvern Links company, and ensured its long-term success. The new car channelled the traditional simplicity of its tricycles but with a more conventional layout.

The first Series One cars became known as 'Flat-Rads', and hold a special place in the hearts of Morgan enthusiasts. More than 1,700 were built - 663 of them between 1936 and 1939.

This example was fitted with a Triumph Herald engine in place of its original Coventry Climax and was fully restored in the 2000s. These cars are very rare in France, and this example is presented in simply marvellous condition.

The History and Paperwork

  • Originally built in 1937 at the Morgan Motor Company factory in Malvern
  • In the 2000s, the car was purchased and restored by the then British owner in the UK
  • In the hands of the current owner since January 2018
  • Currently has a mileage of 7,217 KM
The car's administrative file includes:

  • Some UK invoices and MOT certificates.
  • FFVE certificate confirming the provenance of the vehicle
  • Numerous French invoices
  • A full photographic record of the restoration
  • An electrical diagram, hand-drawn by the restorers
  • The hydraulic brake diagram for the Morris Minor, which has been adapted to the car.

The Condition

  • Beautifully restored period interior
  • Wooden dashboard in good condition, with no major wear
  • Note the beautiful patinated "Geoffrey" nameplate with the car's build date
  • The period dials are clean and easy to read
  • However, we are told that they do not work and will need to be repaired, with the exception of the rev counter which is in good working order
  • Brooklands spoke steering wheel in good condition
  • Chocolate brown leatherette seats and door panels in very good condition
  • Charming level of patina, with no tears
  • Gear lever and housing show light patina
  • Rear boot in very good condition with fire extinguisher
  • Impressive flat grille with numerous bonnet openings
  • Elegant period styling
  • Red paintwork shows some wear, with a few scratches and chips
  • Chrome in good condition, with some pitting here and there
  • Windows and lenses are in good condition
  • Supplied with side screens
  • Soft top needs redoing, but frame is present and folds correctly
  • Fitted with a functional tonneau cover
  • The car is fitted with colour-matched Morgan wheels, which are in good condition
  • Full set of Excelsior tyres
Beautifully presented and restored - whilst retaining plenty of period character - the interior of this Morgan has accumulated just the right amount of patina since its restoration and still presents well, although the instruments are in need of repair.

Adorned with a charming nameplate displaying the car's name, the elegant wooden dashboard, period instruments and seats make this little time capsule a charming gem from a bygone era of motoring.

While the car is absolutely stunning, it does have a few flaws that need to be addressed for it to truly achieve collector car quality.

All in all, it will make a superb aesthetic project for any enthusiast, and won't need much work to restore it to first-class condition.

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The Mechanics

  • Re-engined during restoration
  • Now powered by an I4 Triumph Herald 1147cc overhead valve engine
  • 4-speed manual gearbox with synchronised 3rd and 4th gears
  • The car is easy to start and runs well
  • We have not been informed of any leaks, knocks, noises or smoke.
  • Has undergone a major service work in 2018
With a judicious engine replacement at overhaul - it would appear that the original engine was lost in the process - this beautiful Morgan would start and run without any major problems. Although the engine replacement may upset some purists, it has left this car in good working order, with a reliable engine that starts first time.

The engine bay is clean and well maintained and should make a fine car fit to take you for a drive in all weathers.

BEFORE YOU BUY 
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following: 
The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions.. 
We request that a non-refundable fee  be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates. 
This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind. 
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing. 
We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence. 
✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own  full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle. 
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection 
or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand.. If requested, we may refer you to a third-party shipping company who can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email [email protected] 

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Auction Details
  • Year 1937
  • Make Morgan
  • Model Flat-Rad
  • Colour Red
  • Mileage 7,217 Kilometres
  • Engine size 1147
  • Seller Type Private
  • Town Limoges
  • Country France
  • Auction ends
Bidding history
3 Bids
  • stephen•••• €4,500 22/07/24
  • lbarroi•••• €4,100 21/07/24
  • Classic•••• €3,999 21/07/24

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