Those who experienced it first-hand will almost universally agree that life in post-war Britain was pretty miserable. Parts of the country had been bombed into rubble, and rationing remained widespread. The Government was keen to stimulate the economy, and the best way to do so was to get the population mobile. The result was companies that produced some pretty awful microcars, but the Morris Minor emerged to demonstrate that it was possible to produce a vehicle that could comfortably accommodate four people. This 1960 example is an absolute gem that appears to need nothing. It is ideal for those seeking a small, turnkey classic, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting it listed here on Craigslist in Goldendale, Washington. The seller set their price at $12,500 with the option to make an offer.
Stimulating the country’s economy following World War II was a challenging task for Britain’s Government, and it is fair to say that the country was still struggling at the dawn of the 1960s. While some manufacturers turned their attention to Microcars, Morris saw the need for a practical small car that could still seat a family of four and their luggage or groceries. Alec Issigonis drew the original design for the Morris Minor, and after a fairly rapid development life, the first cars hit the showroom in 1948. The Minor underwent significant ongoing updates throughout its production life, with the last cars rolling off the line in 1971. The history of this 1960 example is unclear, but the seller confirms that it recently received a repaint in stunning two-tone Gray Metallic. The paint shines warmly, contrasted perfectly by the freshly replated bumpers at either end. I can’t see any evidence of rust, and the lack of surface corrosion in areas like the engine bay is encouraging. The 13″ steel wheels feature correct hubcaps and sweet little trim rings, and the glass is clear.
The word “modest” immediately springs to mind when we focus on the Morris Minor 1000’s mechanical specifications. The 948cc four-cylinder engine produces 37hp and 50 ft/lbs of torque, although neither figure is as modest as the 30hp and 40 ft/lbs generated by this engine’s 803cc predecessor. In keeping with a theme based on simplicity, every Minor 1000 featured a four-speed manual transmission and four-wheel drum brakes. It won’t set the local dragstrip alight, but cruising at 60 on the open road should be possible. The seller indicates that this beauty recently received new tires and a wide assortment of new brake components. They don’t mention any mechanical problems, suggesting that handing over the cash is all that will stand between the buyer and a life of motoring pleasure.
The Austin Mini was widely praised for its packaging efficiency, but the Morris Minor 1000 also deserves recognition for that trait. It is longer than the Mini, although the longitudinal engine accounts for much of the difference. By adopting a taller cab than the Mini, the 1000 provided excellent headroom, and the upright seats provided plenty of legroom and space for a surprisingly large trunk. This car’s interior, trimmed in Red vinyl, presents exceptionally well. The upholstered and painted surfaces are free from significant issues, and the carpet appears to be in good condition. The gauges feature clear lenses and crisp markings, although buyers shouldn’t bank on receiving such luxuries as air conditioning or power windows, because this interior doesn’t even score a radio.
I have long viewed the Morris Minor 1000 as one of Britain’s unsung heroes. It wasn’t a bad car. In fact, it was exceptionally good by the standards of the day. Its misfortune is that it spent much of its life in the shadow of that other great Alec Issigonis creation, the Austin Mini. Those who have experienced life inside both vehicles will often agree that while the Minor is marginally bigger than the Mini, it is also more spacious and comfortable. This 1960 example is an absolute belter, appearing to need nothing. The seller’s price is not only affordable, but it looks competitive in the face of recent successful sales. The Morris Minor 1000 is unlikely to ever be a megabucks classic, but it is the type of car that is almost guaranteed to plaster a mile-wide smile on its owner’s face. And after all, isn’t enjoyment what classic car ownership should be all about?
Looks very nice. If the mechanical bits are as tidy as the cosmetics, I’d love to have it. But the first thing I’d want to do is respray the body and engine in factory colors.
Actually, what I want is a Minor with two reversible changes: swap the 948 for a warmed-up 1275 engine, and install disc brakes, at least in the front. For all their charm and Cute Factor, Minors aren’t exactly speedy. Still wouldn’t be with the changes, but every little bit helps, and going farther would involve cutting and welding, plus related changes to handle even more power. Wouldn’t want to do that.
My ex in laws retired to Athens, Greece in the 80s and purchased one of these. It was nicknamed “Minor Catastrophe”. Its compact size made it easier to drive on sidewalks, which they said was sometimes required, due to enormous traffic congestion.
I need a collection these early subcompact cars like this, a bug, a fiat, a mini and a 2CV to bomb around in every day. This one would make a good start.
I wrongly pick on all these European cars, while we had dual quad hemis, the Europeans putt-putted along in these. I looked up the blistering performance times, 0-60 in everywhere from 25.9 to 33.1 sec, I suppose wind was a factor there, and 1/4 mile at 23.3sec@ just about double nickel. Okay, not “Flap Jack Beckman”, but comparing it to other European cars of the period, about the same as a 36 HP Bug, or just about any Asian car. They had about what 1 cylinder of our cars put out, but gas was an issue just about everywhere except the USA and that sure changed in a hurry. What a cool car.
USA still has very cheap gas compared with much of the world, Howard. Otherwise your vehicles would burn way less fuel!
If Americans paid even half of what Icelanders pay for gas, the only pickups you’d see would be actual work vehicles. Not tarted up grocery getters.
While listening to snarky comments by young “snots” back when I was driving a 633cc FIAT 600, I’d simply say, “Race ya past the gas pumps…” That usually brought an end to smart a$$ cracks.
Most fun I ever had was on a twisty road in New England when four loudmouths in a Shoebox started badmouthing me/my car while hanging out the windows. I just upped the speed until the Ford was dragging its door handles in the curves ‘n backed off. Fortunately, not enough straights to benefit the Ford.
The ad’s been pulled. Maybe sold. I have a 60 minor 1000. Loads of fun.
Ad has been deleted by seller.
The problem with these cars was that there were few to no improvements over the years.
No power and no brakes. I guess you don’t need brakes if you have no power.
These could have given VW real competition if the mechanicals had been improved.
The ad is no longer available