Description
Strawberries and cream. It really doesn`t get much more British than this and this fabulous genuine factory Convertible reflects the colours of our favourite summertime dish perfectly! With just 2 owners from new and benefitting from a recent retrim and brand-new custom-made Everflex hood, this pretty Morris represents a superb opportunity to acquire what is still one of the most sought-after of all British classics with lovely provenance at a great price.
A classic of automotive design, the Morris Minor was a product of Sir Alec Issigonis`s leadership and went into production in 1948 with a run spanning 23 years. The first British car to sell over one million units, it was available as either a 2 or 4-door saloon, convertible (Tourer), estate (Traveller) and in small commercial form as a van or pick-up. Issigonis wanted to create a practical, economical and affordable car that was easy to drive and it`s popularity today only goes to prove that the brief was met. From 1962 onwards, the Minor had developed to earn it`s own development number - ADO59 - with engine capacity increased to 1098cc, stronger gearbox, bigger drum brakes and revised interiors. Production of the Tourer actually ceased in August 1969 somewhat earlier than other Minor variants with the popular 1100/ 1300 range and Mini now taking centre stage in the sales showrooms.
Our car was supplied new in May 1961 to a gentleman in Sussex. Sadly, we know little of it`s history prior to January 2015 when as a running but rather neglected example it was acquired by a Morris enthusiast living in Ferndown, Dorset. A one-owner from new car at this point, the Morris was evidently recommissioned, repainted and freshly MoT`d and put back into service as regular transport back and forth to the local golf club. In between trips out, the car resided in a large purpose-built garage at the rear of the driveway and was evidently polished more than used - covering just 150 miles in 9 years of ownership. Indeed, simple lack of use has subsequently encouraged our second keeper to reluctantly find a new home for the Morris. We acquired it a month or so ago, since when it has been in the very capable hands of S. J. Bowles Coachtrimming of Bridport for the manufacture and custom fitting of a brand-new convertible hood in Cream Everflex. Back with us just this week, we have now had the opportunity to undertake a detail clean and the little car is now ready to go.
The Morris presents just as can be seen in the photographs. Bodywork is excellent whilst the older repaint in Damask Red polishes up beautifully with a deep lustre and looks superb against the new Cream hood and painted wheels. All chrome and external trim present well with just minor pitting. Inside, the entire cabin was freshly retrimmed around 4 years ago with Dark Red seat covers, door cards and matching carpets and still looks stunning. There really is nothing to do with the car but enjoy it! Turn the ignition key, pull the starter and the ever-eager A-Series fires immediately into life with that unmistakable exhaust note burbling away from the rear. On the road, the car drives just as one would hope. Peppy acceleration, a smooth gearchange and light clutch make for easy driving with nice positive steering and a comfortable ride all adding to the driving experience, whilst original drum brakes provide more than adequate stopping ability when required. On a bright July morning, I took the Morris for a decent trip out towards Bridport and back along the coast road to Abbotsbury. It is lovely to drive and engenders a real “thumbs up” reaction from other motorists and passers-by owing without question to it`s distinctive colour scheme.
The car comes with a small history file containing sundry bills, old MoT Certificates and a current V5C. It is naturally both MoT and road-tax exempt.
A very pretty and unquestionably very British classic ready to be enjoyed.
Shore Classics is based on the West Dorset coast within easy proximity of both Weymouth and the County town of Dorchester. As classic and vintage dealers, we offer full brokerage facilities. So if you require some help and guidance with selling your classic car or motorcycle, just give us a call today.
