The wood-framed Morgan sports car is a record holder. Introduced in 1950 and featuring what was deliberately retro styling even back then, the two-seater four-wheel has been in continuous production for over 72 years, the longest of any car ever made.
During that time, it has had multiple powertrains. Today, you can even have an electric one, but for the true hardcore Morgan fans it’s the 1968-2004 ‘Plus Eight’ that’s the one to have, powered by the venerable “Rover V8” alloy-block engine and with a soundtrack to match its open-top thrills and lively rear-drive handling.
This one is a very special car indeed, having only ever had one owner. Sadly, he passed away earlier this year and the Morgan is offered as a bereavement sale by his sons, who remember their dad travelling to the Morgan factory in Malvern to collect his new car back in 1979. It’s a sad and reluctant sale, but one that they want to pursue so the Morgan goes to a home where it will be properly appreciated JptjY2kHjRt4LIQZWCYsGO15HErNNtH0wfzl4a32.jpeg2.13 MB
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
Bought new from Malvern factory in 1979 by its one and only owner
Bereavement sale being handled by late owner’s sons
New MOT, but also tax and MOT exempt
49,641 miles from new, warranted by vendor
UK V5C showing zero previous owners
Original owners handbook
Handwritten service log in handbook
Original owner had car serviced annually by local garage
The dark red leather of the Morgan’s cabin contrasts beautifully with the Old English White (cream) bodywork. It’s a great look, and it’s in generally good condition with no major wear to the dash, wood veneers or carpets.
The driver’s seat is a little tired in places, but it’s not split or damaged and would respond well to some leather dye of you felt so obliged, though it has a pleasant patina to it that may mean you prefer to leave it well alone. I6ghwKoJZaBbx7w7cQzZ7hQcAkDP1YNrpcHMio6f.jpeg1.29 MB
THE EXTERIOR
Original Old English White
Factory magnesium alloy wheels
All original paint and never restored
Good chassis and wood frame
When you consider it hasn’t seen anything other than regular cleaning over 43 years, the bodywork of the Morgan is astonishing. It’s wholly and completely original, not even a drop of touch-up paint or scratch repair.
That originality means it has a few small blemishes – chips to the paint around the bonnet closures front and rear, a few chips and marks, and there are also some stress cracks in the paint around both front wings and rear quarters – nothing horrendous or that instantly jumps out at you and the patina this brings adds more to the car than a full respray would. Likewise, the original yellow and white reflective steel numberplates and slightly pitted magnesium alloy wheels. It’s a car that’s beautifully original, totally unspoilt and exactly as it left the factory other than for gentles signs of ageing. ZVpgAINxRgSfFapiWFNSZ07bPo5ecXw0f0NxSHrQ.jpeg1.97 MB
THE MECHANICS
3.5-litre V8
Five-speed manual transmission
Starts and runs well with no issues
New MOT just completed
With a genuine low mileage of under 50,000 miles the Morgan has been carefully maintained throughout its life, the work initially recorded by the owner in a handwritten log inside the back of the owner’s manual.
According to his sons, the car has had whatever work it has needed completed as and when required, by a garage local to their father. It has just been back there for a new MOT and general check-over and has been given a clean bill of health. It starts well, runs sweetly and sounds fantastic.
Cars like this are few and far between, as although it’s not in perfect condition the Morgan has a patina to it that you really wouldn’t want to restore, as it’s such a genuine, unspoilt and original example that has only ever had one owner. It wears the same paint and trim it did back when it left the Malvern factory in 1979, it’s complete, original and extremely charming. Hopefully its new owner will love it as much as its one and only previous keeper did.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
