Morris Minor 1000 Convertible

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The original 1948 side-valve Minor - or ‘poached egg’ as Lord Nuffield so rudely called it - was a sedate performer but thanks to delightful handling and steering, was always a great car to drive.

Gradually developed over the years, a facelifted Series II came out in 1952. It retained the split-screen of the early cars, but was now powered by the Austin A-series 803cc engine from the A30. From 1956, the Minor 1000 really came of age and was the best of the lot - and remains so for those who want one to drive as well as to show.

The larger A-series engines finally provided power to match the handling, even more so after September 1962 when a 1,098cc engine replaced the earlier 948cc version. Available in numerous variants, including two and four-door saloons, a wood-framed Traveller estate, a panel van and a pick-up, most glamorous and sought-after of all was the convertible Tourer model which offered top-down motoring at a budget price.

This smart and usable Tourer came into the vendor’s hands in May 2010. Used sparingly, he has undertaken a number of improvements to the car and kept it well maintained since acquisition.

Older bills on file show that in 2005 it had new trunnions and spring shackles and in 2011 it received a respray at a cost of £1,200 although the vendor is anxious to point out that there have been several areas of ‘shrinkage’ to the paint which would now benefit from some attention.

In June of last year, JFI Classics gave the car a thorough service and replaced several brake cylinders and radiator hoses, after which it has hardly been used. The history file includes the DVLA ownership history and there are three old MOTs on file. Fitted with a 1,098cc engine, the car has the correct gussets under the dashboard and B-post supports, although for some reason, the windscreen wiper layout would indicate a slightly later model.

Ready to use and improve, this 1959 registered car is MOT exempt, has a good hood and is due to be driven some 50 miles to the sale. Fun to drive and easy to own, this sound little Morris is ready for immediate use.