1952 Morgan Plus 4 Drop Head Coupe Flat-Rad

Highlights

  • One of the few Flat-Rad Drop Head Coupes produced
  • In current ownership since 1971
  • Exceptional condition throughout

The Appeal

 
The Morgan Plus 4 Drop Head Coupe represents a pivotal moment in automotive design, marrying the classic Morgan silhouette with the unique Flat-Rad front end that distinguishes it from later models. This particular example, one of the few Drop Head Coupes with the Flat-Rad design, offers a blend of rarity and historical significance that is hard to find. Owning this Morgan means driving a piece of history, a rare car that harks back to the golden era of British sports cars with its distinctive lines, craftsmanship, and driving dynamics.
 
In the same ownership since 1971 and having been lovignly cared for that whole time, this Drop Head Coupe offers a fantastic combination of excellent condition and a long, well documented history. It’s had extensive restoration and the condition is superb throughout, both aesthetically and mechanically. The rarity of the Flat-Rad Drop Head Coupe, especially in such exceptional condition and with only two owners from new, makes this Morgan a highly desirable piece for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
 

 

The History and Paperwork

  • First registered on 07/04/1952
  • Current owner since 1971
  • Extensive history file dating back to 1971, also including photographs and correspondence with the original owner back to 1952
  • Odometer reset to 0 at engine rebuild
  • Restored by Colin Musgrove between 1986-1990
  • Tax and MOT exempt


 

The Condition

  • Exterior resprayed in Gulf Blue and in fantastic condition
  • Brightwork, including chrome hub caps, in superb condition
  • Blue Mohair hood in fantastic condition
  • Red leather upholstery in presents very well throughout
  • Wooden dash and door cappings are excellent 
  • Brooklands steering wheel 
  • LED indicators fited into the sidelights
  • Original trafficators
  • Badges, trim and lights all in excellent condition
  • Bodywork presents superbly throughout
  • Handbrake would benefit from attention and the fuel gauge is intermittent
 
The overall condition of this Plus Four is nothing short of spectacular. From its Gulf Blue exterior to the meticulously cared-for red leather interior and wooden elements, every aspect of this car has been preserved or restored making for an exceptionally fine car. The attention to detail throughout is of note alongside careful documentation of all the work carried out since 1971. This Morgan is not just another classic; it's it’s an exceptionally fine example of a rare Broitish classic that captures the essence of 1950s British sports car design, promising to be a joy to drive and a standout in any collection.
 
 


The Mechanics

  • Powered by a Standard Vanguard 2,088cc engine, paired with a manual Moss gearbox
  • Engine and engine bay in fantastic condition
  • New chassis and frame during the restoration
  • All of the bodywork used during the restoration is made from aluminium
  • Paintwork inside the engine bay is in superb condition
  • The car starts easily and idles well
  • Cylinder head is suitable for unleaded petrol and the car can use E5 with Tetraboost
  • The car drives as it should and the owner reports that there are no faults other than the handbrake
  • Electronic ignition module
  • Engine rebuilt at the time of odometer reset by Colin Musgrove
  • Underneath the car, all of the visible components appear to be in excellent condition
 
Mechanically, this Morgan Plus 4 Drop Head Coupe is as impressive as it is visually. The engine, having been rebuilt and meticulously maintained, runs smoothly, offering the authentic driving experience that Morgan enthusiasts cherish. Despite the handbrake needing attention, the overall mechanical condition of this car is outstanding, promising reliability and performance that is rare for a vehicle of its age. This Morgan is a testament to the craftsmanship and engineering excellence of its era combined with long-term and loving ownership.
 


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: 
If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies. 
A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details. 
This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only. 
✓ 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. 
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing. 
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery. 

Please see our FAQs here and our Terms & Conditions here

Vehicle specification
  • Year 1952
  • Make Morgan
  • Model Flat-Rad
  • Colour Blue
  • Odometer 5,607 Miles
  • Engine size 2088
Auction Details
  • Seller Type Trade
  • Town Exeter
  • Location Devon
  • Country United Kingdom
Bidding history
14 bids from 7 bidders
  • de•••• £21,000 04/03/24
  • de•••• £19,770 04/03/24
  • ge•••• £19,520 04/03/24
  • ma•••• £19,250 04/03/24
  • ge•••• £19,000 04/03/24
  • ma•••• £18,750 04/03/24
  • ge•••• £18,500 04/03/24
  • wi•••• £18,200 04/03/24
  • Th•••• £10,250 03/03/24
  • Th•••• £10,000 03/03/24
Message C&C Auction Team

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