Description
The Morris Minor was produced from 1948 until 1971. Side-valve engines were followed by OHV engines, first 803, then 948 and finally 1100cc. Early cars are known as series MM cars, “Low-light” models were followed by “High-light” until 1953 when the series 2 cars came along.
This Minor is a very special car indeed. Registered 19th November 1949, less than 12 months after the Earl’s Court motor show launch, we believe it to be the 2nd or 3rd oldest “Tourer” in existence. It was used as a daily driver by its first owner until the 70’s, then stored until 2014, when our customer, an accomplished sheet metal worker, bought it and embarked on an 8 year restoration to original specification.
As you can see from the photos the result is impressive. There’s too much detail to list here but the best trim and replacement parts were chosen regardless of cost to make the car look as close to new as possible, right down to the hand-painted stripes on the coach-work and wheel trims. Some of the chrome-work is now unobtainable so the restorer went to the lengths of buying another “MM” to source various parts for re-chroming.
The metal work was completed to the highest standards on a rotisserie and the shell subsequently painted in its original colour, Platinum Grey, the same colour as NWL576, the first Minor to roll off the production line. As you would expect, the mechanical condition is also just as good as it looks; the side valve engine and four speed gearbox have been re-built as has everything else, including suspension, brakes and electrics. The underside matches the upper body and is in “eat your dinner off it” condition.
The car now presents in close to perfect condition with a couple of concessions to modern motoring; a battery cut-out switch, subtly mounted flashing indicators (easily removed) to supplement the working trafficators and radial tyres.
Over the years we have discovered and sold various interesting BMC cars but this Minor is perhaps unique – if you’re looking for an “MM” tourer, very few cars exist and finding one registered in the 40’s is virtually impossible. In our opinion, this car is as important as an early Mini Cooper or Range Rover (but much more affordable) so whether it ends up in a collection and/ or being used by an enthusiastic owner it’s certain to be a good investment in these uncertain times. It’s worth noting that it would cost much more than our asking price to have one restored to this standard.
Completing the picture is the transferable number, TRE 40. Sacrilege to consider separating it from the car after 74 years but it has been valued at £5k plus which is pleasing to know. It has also had just three owners but in reality just one driver from new.
Please call if more detail is required.
More photos available, please call or email for a link.
Viewing near Stockport, Cheshire.
Thanks for looking.
