1969 Morris 1100 Saloon

Lot details
Registration No: WBL543H
Chassis No: 581571A
Mot Expiry: April 2003

The Morris version of the Austin 1100 first appeared in Morris showrooms in 1962, a year before the Austin-badged alternative. The Issigonis engineered 1100 was really an enlarged Mini with Hydrolastical suspension. The transversely mounted engine and transmission took up the minimum amount of space up front, while a wheel at each corner left most of the rest of the inside of the car for occupants and their luggage. Here was a small car that was spacious and yet handled and braked like a sportscar. In terms of historical significance, the 1100 has to be given equal billing with Issigonis Mini and Minor concepts.
From 1971, Morris owners BMC switched Morris badging to their Ford Cortina and Vauxhall Victor competitor, the Marina, and the 1100 was made with Austin badge. The historic Morris name was finally dropped when the last Morris Ital was produced at Longbridge in December 1983.
The 1100 being offered here today is rare having done just over 10,000 miles from new. The low mileage, claimed by the vendor to be genuine, is due to it only ever having had two previous keepers and because it has spent a considerable time in recent years on display at a Rover Garage. You only have to inspect the interior, which is claimed to be original, to see for your yourself that it has had very little use. Taxed, MOT’d and ready to drive away.