Description
The original Morris Minor arrived in 1928, in direct competition with the Austin Seven. The model was equipped with cable brakes, a three speed gearbox and an 847cc, over-head camshaft engine, based on a design by Wolseley, which in 1932 was replaced with a side-valve unit for the final year of the Minor’s production. The petite sports car had a 48” wheelbase and initially had just two body styles – a two door saloon and a four-seat tourer, but during its production up to twelve were offered, including the arrival of a van in 1930.
It is thought that more than 86, 000 Minors were built between 1928 and 1934. This car is one of the rarest of all, as the two-seater accounted for only around 10%. My father-in-law has owned and cherished this car since 1972 but, now in his early 90’s, he’s decided that it’s time to allow someone else to enjoy it. Manufactured in December 1932 and registered in January 1933, this smart and sporty Minor has been the subject of an older restoration in the late 1960’s with the current owner commissioning a comprehensive engine rebuild, using a replacement block, around 1995. I’m told that attention was also given to the gearbox, clutch, braking system and carburettor etc. New tyres were also fitted, as were new plugs, distributor and battery, plus much more. The original complete, engine is included in the sale but its condition is unknown. Overall, the Minor is considered, by the current custodian, to be very good and in reliable mechanical condition. The bodywork is sound and tidy with some paint imperfections touched in. The upholstery was replaced some years ago and remains and in excellent order, as is the Double-Duck hood, complete with side screens. The car was fairly well known in the local Morris Register Club, particularly in the first 30 years of my father-in-law’s ownership, when the car was often to be seen at a variety of local car shows where he even collected one or two trophies. As well as a more recent V5 registration document an early green ‘log book’ is present together with a copy of an even earlier buff version.
