Lot 117 - 1970 Morris Morris Minor Van (six cwt)
| Lot Number | 117 |
| Registration | URL 896H |
| Chassis Number | MAV5286218 |
| Engine Number | tba |
| Odometer reading | 87,617 miles |
| Result | Sold - £10,080 |
Closed van and open flat-bed ('pick-up') versions of the Minor were built from 1953 until the end of production. They were designed for commercial use with small businesses, although many were also used by larger corporations. Van versions were popular with the General Post Office, the early versions of these (to around 1956) having rubber front wings to cope with the sometimes unforgiving busy situations in which they were expected to work. Both the van and the pickup differed from the monocoque construction of the saloon and Traveller variants by having a separate chassis. They also differed in details such as telescopic rear dampers, stiffer rear leaf springs and lower-ratio differentials to cope with heavier loads.
The commercials versions were initially marketed as the Morris Quarter Ton Van and Pick-up. The names Morris 6cwt Van and Pickup were used following the introduction of the 1098cc engine in 1962.
First registered on 20th April, 1970, this van was used in Fowey, Cornwall for a family-run artist studio from new until 2002 when it was retired from service. What was then the Morris centre in the Southwest purchased it and it was dry stored until last year when a full restoration started. The restoration included a refurbished chassis, new braking system, suspension and tyres. The engine was rebuilt with an unleaded cylinder head, new wiring loom, an alternator conversion as well as a disc brake conversion and a servo fitted making braking more controlled and ultimately more practical and usable. Although showing two owners on the V5, it has only ever been used by the purchaser in Fowey on the road. We are informed the mileage of 87,617 is warranted as genuine. Having been restored sympathetically to look correct and useable to drive, this charming example comes with a fresh MoT test certificate with no advisories and with period sign writing would make an ideal vehicle for a small business. Supplied with 14 old tax discs, drivers handbook and 20 old MoT test certificates.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.