Lot details
Registration No: JSL 306
Chassis No: 3178
Mot Expiry: May 2006

Faced like the rest of the British motor industry with an 'export or die' edict from the government, the Standard Motor Company had little choice but to rationalize production. Announced in 1947, its 'one engine policy' dictated that within two years it would be unable to supply Morgan with the 1,267cc units that had powered the 'Four Four' since 1938. Keen to maintain links (as a young man Standard's Sir John Black had been responsible for producing the 'three-wheeler' model's patent drawings), the Malvern concern began work on a bigger-engined prototype. Launched in 1950, the resultant Plus Four featured the 2,088cc Standard Vanguard engine, a specially strengthened chassis, revised sliding pillar independent front suspension and Girling hydraulic drum brakes. Equipped with a Moss four-speed manual gearbox and Salisbury 4:1 ratio back axle, it was capable of over 85mph. An immediate success in competition (thanks in part to the high power to weight ratio imbued by its lightweight aluminium over ash frame construction), Plus Fours won Morgan the team award on both the 1951 and 1952 RAC rallies. Available as an open two-seater, a four-seater or a more expensive drophead coupe in the coachbuilt tradition, the model received an aerodynamically honed radiator cowl in 1954 and an engine upgrade the following year. Taken from the Standard-Triumph TR2, the new 1991cc unit developed some 90bhp and reputedly gave 100mph plus performance.
This particular example should be faster still as we are informed by the vendor that it has apparently been fitted with a 2138cc Triumph TR4 powerplant at some stage (a common enhancement). Finished in maroon with black leatherette upholstery (believed original), it is described as being in good overall condition. Benefiting from Lucas halogen headlamps, a Kenlowe fan and twin rear mounted spare wheels, this rare and desirable Morgan shows an unwarranted 45,653 miles on its odometer.
PLEASE NOTE: This car is the rarer two seater drophead coupe with the 'highline' and 'suicide' doors and as such is one of only 17 produced.