Description
Now available at Fine Lines Classic Cars (Northampton) is this wonderfully characterful 1972 Austin 6 cwt van, the cheerful cousin to the ever-popular Morris Minor Van, and quite possibly the only classic commercial guaranteed to raise a smile before it has even started. With charming links to Smiths Butchers of Ibstock, Leicestershire, this delightful “Moggy” wears its history proudly, complete with beautifully hand-painted signwriting that captures the spirit of a bygone British high street.
Step around to the rear and the story really comes to life, where it has been lovingly presented as a traditional butcher’s van, complete with apron, scales, mincing machine, model pig, butcher’s hat, wicker basket and even a diagram showing the cuts of meat, creating a wonderful mix of theatre and nostalgia, while the neatly lined rear adds both practicality and visual appeal.
Inside, the cabin is fitted with comfortable cloth seats, offering a pleasant place to sit as you trundle along, adding a touch of everyday usability to all the charm and character.
Beneath the surface, the van benefits from a series of thoughtful upgrades including a 5-speed gearbox paired with the trusty 1098cc engine for more relaxed cruising, front disc brakes with servo assistance, nearly new radial tyres and alloy wheels, along with an alternator conversion, immobiliser, heater and temperature and oil pressure gauges, all helping to make this a classic that can be enjoyed in the modern world.
Please note, this is not a concours show pony or a £25, 000 nut-and-bolt restored example, but rather a very sound, honest and usable van that you can simply turn the key and enjoy. The paintwork is presentable, showing age-related marks and patina consistent with its years, while mechanically it is superb, starting readily, running very well and driving exactly as it should.
Clearly cherished, it comes with a comprehensive history file and has recently benefitted from a new battery, alternator, full brake overhaul, carburettor rebuild, water pump, thermostat and starter motor, and it starts, drives and behaves exactly as a well cared for example should.
On the road it is an absolute hoot, slow enough to savour yet lively enough to keep you smiling, and guaranteed to draw attention wherever it goes, whether at a show, an event or simply parked outside your favourite café.
A wonderfully eccentric piece of British motoring history that refuses to be ignored, offered at sensible money and representing a rare opportunity to own a characterful classic commercial without the price tag of a fully restored example.
Classed as a historic vehicle, it benefits from free road tax and is MOT exempt, although it currently has an advisory-free MOT until March 2027 for added peace of mind. A detailed walkaround video is available on our website and YouTube channel, with many more images including the underside also available online, and an in-depth walkaround video is also available via WhatsApp upon request. UK nationwide delivery available and part exchange considered.
Opportunities to acquire such a distinctive and usable example are few and far between, so early enquiry is strongly recommended.
For further details or to arrange an appointment to view, please contact David on the details below / the details below (Fine Lines Classic Cars (Northampton) or visit our website Fine Lines Classic Cars
