Morris Minor Split-screen Convertible

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Launched at the 1948 Earls Court Motor Show, the Alec Issigonis-designed Morris Minor went on to become one of the most successful British cars of all time with over 1,000,000 units sold by 1961 and production continuing right up until 1971.

It was conceived as a vehicle to combine many of the luxuries and conveniences of a good motor car with a price suitable for the working classes. Compared with competitor products throughout the 1950s, it excelled as a roomy vehicle with superior cornering/handling characteristics which continue to delight driving enthusiasts to this day.

The Minor came in several 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. All models were gradually but subtly improved over time, gaining a one-piece windscreen, better heating and an engine that grew from a 27bhp 918cc sidevalve unit to a 1098cc ohv unit that produced 47bhp and could propel the car to a top speed of 77mph.

First registered on 2nd January 1956 to a resident of Torquay, this smart Convertible remained in their ownership until 2011 when it was sold as a restoration project for just £500. The new owner undertook a comprehensive renovation, replacing the inner and outer sills, front wings, one rear wing and fitted a number of repair panels. Photographs on file show the quality of the restoration, which exhibits neat work and has retained good panel fit.

A donor MG Midget was used to upgrade the car’s performance, the 1,275cc engine getting an unleaded head conversion, new timing chain, new main and big end bearings and a rebore with new +060’ pistons. The twin SU carburettors were rebuilt with a kit from Burlen Fuel Systems and the electrics upgraded with an alternator and electronic ignition. The exhaust was replaced with a big-bore system mated to a three-branch manifold, the mechanical elements being finished off with a reconditioned radiator.

Its interior was then smartened up with fresh carpets and the wheels replaced with wide-rim items, although the originals come with the car and are included in the sale. Acquired by the vendor in September 2014, he has used it sparingly and could now do with the garage space.

With excellent performance, a good hood and smart appearance, this well-sorted split-screen Morris Convertible comes with a good history file including nine old MOTs and is being offered at no reserve so the highest bidder can drive it away today.