Lot Ended
Description
Produced for only a short
period before the outbreak of the Second World War brought civilian car
production to a halt; driven to the sale; powered by the model's 1,550cc
overhead-valve four-cylinder engine with cross-flow cylinder head, driving
through a four-speed gearbox with synchromesh on the upper three
ratios
Few pre-war British saloons offer quite the same blend of
practicality, character and usability as the Morris 12/4 Series III. Produced
for only a short period before the outbreak of the Second World War brought
civilian car production to a halt, these handsome Morris saloons are now a rare
sight on the road and increasingly sought after by enthusiasts who appreciate
their ease of use and robust engineering.
First registered in May 1938,
this Morris 12/4 Series III is powered by the model's 1,550cc overhead-valve
four-cylinder engine with cross-flow cylinder head, driving through a four-speed
gearbox with synchromesh on the upper three ratios. Benefiting from 12-volt
electrics, the vendor informs us the car starts readily on the button, runs
sweetly, maintains good oil pressure and is capable of cruising comfortably at
around 60mph, making it one of the more usable pre-war classics in modern
traffic.
The car was purchased by the late John Bradshaw, a well-known
Morris Owners Club member and classic car enthusiast, in June 1992. Although the
vehicle was already in running condition, he subsequently undertook a
sympathetic restoration aimed not at creating a concours show winner, but a
practical and reliable classic capable of regular touring, rallies and club
events. During his ownership the car was extensively enjoyed, even being fitted
with a tow bar for towing a trailer tent on longer adventures.
The
restoration included retrimming the interior, refurbishing the sliding sunshine
roof, replacing the boot floor and spare wheel well area, and fitting new rear
springs. Importantly, the car remains largely original in appearance and
character, with the bodywork reported to be in good order throughout. As one
would hope from a long-term enthusiast-owned example, it has been carefully
maintained throughout its life.
The Morris 12/4 Series III featured a
redesigned body on a slightly shorter wheelbase than its predecessor and
introduced the more powerful overhead-valve engine while retaining the
traditional Morris virtues of reliability and comfort. Other period improvements
included opening rear quarter lights and glass ventilation louvres above the
front door windows. Interestingly, unlike some Morris models of the era, this
example was not fitted with the optional Jackall hydraulic jacking
system.
Production of the Series III lasted only for a brief period
before wartime restrictions intervened and the model was never reinstated after
the war, making surviving examples particularly scarce today. The vendor advises
that only a relatively small number remain in the hands of enthusiasts, adding
to the appeal of this attractive survivor.
The odometer currently
displays 9,530 miles, although, as with any vehicle of this age, this figure
cannot be warranted. Accompanying the car is a pleasing history file including
the V5C, owner's handbook, Heritage Certificate and a selection of photographs
documenting the vehicle and its history.
The Morris was driven to the
sale and appears to be exactly the sort of honest, usable pre-war motor car that
enthusiasts are always hoping to find. Combining rarity, practicality, long-term
enthusiast ownership and a well-documented history, it represents a fine
opportunity to acquire one of Morris Motors' most appealing late pre-war
saloons. Whether for rallies, touring or simply enjoyment on country roads, this
charming 12/4 looks ready for its next chapter.
Contact: david.tassell@brightwells.com