Highlights

Rare and desirable factory-built convertible
Upgraded to a rebuilt 1,098 cc A Series
Serviced annually by an experienced enthusiast from the Morris Club
In present ownership since 2010
Supremely original bodywork and interior
Advisory-free (voluntary) MOT

The Appeal

Faced with post-war economic challenges and burgeoning foreign competition, it seemed logical Britain's leading car makers should pool their resources. Steps were made towards a merger in 1948, but the deep-rooted and often hostile rivalry between Morris and Austin’s chief executives, led to a break-off in negotiations the following year.

Eventually, however, on Friday 23rd November 1951, an agreement was reached and the British Motor Corporation (BMC) was born. This historic move changed the landscape of the British auto industry and led to the immense success of one of the most important cars of the century - the Morris Minor.

Issigonis’ radical new ‘Minor’ premiered in 1948, but early models were let down by the reluctant inclusion of a hopelessly old-fashioned side-valve engine. The BMC merger meant Morris now had use of the comparatively modern Austin A Series engine, ensuring the Series II Minor of 1952, with its all-new drivetrain, was significantly better than its predecessor.

We’re delighted to offer this very original convertible example from 1954. It’s been in present ownership since 2010 and has been serviced regularly by an experienced enthusiast from the Morris Club who also happens to be a friend of the vendor. One concession to originality is that this example comes with a later A Series - a 1,098 cc unit which enhances this car’s usability in modern traffic while retaining the character of the original 803 cc unit. The engine has been rebuilt and the car reportedly drives very well indeed.

Today, these Series II Morris Minors are sought after among enthusiasts - especially the rare factory convertibles. This one is among the most usable you’ll find thanks to the engine upgrade and delightful patina throughout.

The History and Paperwork

In present ownership since 2010 (acquired at 7,560 miles recorded)
The odometer now reads 17,049 miles
Six former registered keepers
Buff logbook present along with modern V5C document
Hand-written notes of mechanical work by Hodgkinson’s Autos
Voluntarily submitted for MOT testing and valid until 3rd August
Collection of old MOT certificates
Garage stored

The Condition

The fabric roof folds away neatly and appears in good condition with some light age-commensurate wear
Straight and solid-looking bodywork
No notable signs of wear to the paint
Equipped with semaphores which the vendor demonstrates to be in good working order
Smart brightwork with no notable wear or pitting to report
All appears sound underneath
The offside door exhibits some paint bubbling which is a common Morris Minor issue
Smart hubcaps
Original Series II ‘split-screen’ windscreen and mesh grille in good shape
Commendably original interior
The upholstery presents beautifully, with just a few scratches on the driver’s seat
Some fading to the carpets, although they remain eminently serviceable
The dashboard and instruments present very well and are charmingly patinated

The Mechanics

1,098 cc A Series l4
Four-speed manual gearbox
The engine compartment presents well overall

Recent mechanical refurbishment included

Engine re-bore
New pistons
Crankshaft re-grind and new bearings
Full gasket set
New distributor, points and condenser
New clutch

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:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

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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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