Lot details Registration No: 197 XUF Chassis No: FAE11/222099 Mot Expiry: July 2008
Debuting alongside Jaguar's superbly glamorous XK120 OTS at the 1948 London Motor Show, the Morris Minor was somewhat overshadowed. Arguably the more advanced design, the Minor was the brainchild of Sir Alec Issigonis. With a monocoque chassis, independent torsion-bar front suspension, all-round hydraulic drum brakes and rack and pinion steering, it possessed excellent handling. Though, the ability to maintain momentum was a welcome trait given the leisurely performance granted by its 918cc, sidevalve engine. This unit's deficiencies were remedied by the introduction of the Series II Minor in 1952. A product of the newly formed BMC, it was fitted with an A-series OHV 803cc powerplant. With some 30bhp and 40lbft of torque to propel its 790kg, the Series II could reputedly attain a 65mph top speed. Produced from 1952-1956, it proved a strong sales success in both foreign and domestic markets.
Finished in green with green upholstery, this particular example is variously described by the vendor as being in "average for year" (electrical equipment, interior trim, chassis, wheels / tyres), "average / poor for year" (bodywork, paintwork) or "good" (engine, four-speed manual gearbox) condition. A 'Split Screen' Series II model that has apparently been upgraded with a larger 1098cc A-series engine at some stage, '197 UXF' is said to have been "last owned by an old lady" and to have seen "little yearly usage". Clearly an experienced old car enthusiast, the seller also reports that the four-door saloon's "last 80-mile round trip was a success!" Currently awaiting the arrival of a new V5C Registration Document from DVLA Swansea (though a photocopy of the old one accompanied the car), this care-worn but game 'Moggie' Minor is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until July 2008 and historic class (free) road tax.
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