If you ever wanted proof of Morris's meteoric rise, the Bullnose is doubtless it. While it wasn't dissimilar from the Oxford before it, the Cowley was built for the best possible value for money with a host of American parts. That made it a great potential prospect for international distribution, and at a time when Morris were making up nearly forty five percent of international sales, the Cowley offered simply excellent value that demolished any prospective competition.
When the Continental 'Red Seal' engine from Detroit ceased manufacture, Morris proved so confident in it that they effectively copied it - this time, manufacturing it with the English branch of Hotchkiss, which they later absorbed into what must have seemed like a leviathan of the motor industry to the general public.
Today, the Bullnose cars are evocative chunks of a day gone by. That veteran styling and airy cabin (not to mention a rather precarious looking rumble seat) all summate the very early days of motoring, and thanks to an excellent level of support, they remain very accessible entryways into the world of the truly vintage car.
This example has managed to survive with a remarkable level of originality. Boasting what's believed to have been only four owners from new, there's a lovely, timeworn patina to this lovely little Cowley that we're sure will charm even the most discerning enthusiast - without losing an ounce of the car's usability.
History and Paperwork
Built in 1922
First UK Registration in 1937
Family owned until 1982
Recommissioned by further owner in Ireland
Transferred to UK by purchaser in 2016
Purchased directly by current owner in 2021
Available receipts for reconditioning of Dynastart and Lucas Magneto
Well-documented history with all matching numbers
The Condition
Hood and side screens in good condition
Lovely general order with an ivory livery
Some signs of wear and paint loss, commensurate with age
This is most noticeable around the panel fits and arches
Patina to the brasswork, commensurate with age
Wheels carry some paint cracking, which is hardly a surprise for the car's venerable years
Underside is in solid order with some corrosion and wear
Cabin carries a charming patina, fitting of its antique nature
Wooden dash is beautifully aged with a lovely grain
All instruments are legible, and loaded with vintage charm
Seats look newer than much of the cabin, and are free of any rips or tears
Floors appear solid and may have been reboarded over the car's life
Does not have a speedometer
The Mechanics
1.5-Litre four-cylinder engine offering 11.9 HP
Manual transmission with 3 gears
Smith's 5 jet carburettor
Engine bay in good overall order with age-commensurate wear
As expected, this veteran is a rather primitive machine with:
2 Wheel brakes
Speed crash gearbox
Manual mixture and timing control
Cork clutch
As a result the vendor highlights that the car requires a lot of sympathetic driving!
We understand the car to be in good working order
We've no reports of any specific mechanical issues
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:
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✓ 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.
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