Morris 10/6 Special (1 of 3 known)

History

Launched in 1934 and only in production for two years, the Morris 10/6 was never a common sight on British roads. Basically a lengthened version of the highly successful Morris 10/4, it was powered by a larger six-cylinder 1,378cc sidevalve engine which was never really up to the job of propelling what was quite a heavy car. Mainly sold as a saloon, it was also available as a coupe and an open two-seater with dickey.

In an attempt to compete with MG, a more sporty four-seat open tourer version was also made available. Known as the 10/6 Special it had a tuned engine with high-lift cam and twin SUs and plenty of sporting accessories – leather bonnet strap, imitation 'knock-on' hubcaps for the wire wheels, radiator and headlamp stone guards and so on. Though truth be told, it was hardly sporting and still had trouble in the skin and rice puddings department.   

First registered on 13th February 1935, this 10/6 Special has been owned by the same family for the last 55 years and is one of only three such cars known to the Morris Register. Bought in pieces in 1952, it was fully restored and pressed into daily use as the family's main means of transport.

As the years rolled by it became clear that the car was having increasing difficulty in keeping up with all the smart new cars around her so, in the early 1970s, she was fitted with an engine and gearbox from an MGB. The brakes and suspension were also uprated at this time and additional instruments added to the dash. Newly revitalised, she was now treated with a little more respect and used mainly as a second car for attending shows and rallies and taking the family on the occasional European holiday.

Still in regular light use today, the car is said to drive very well and to be very reliable with a good turn of speed. Due to have a fresh MOT before the sale, it also has every MOT back to 1961, many old tax discs and an old buff log book from 1954. A large quantity of spares may also be available by separate negotiation if required.

Altogether a most rare and appealing car with a good history that has many years of family motoring ahead of it.