MORRIS OXFORD SERIES VI (1961-71)

WHAT MAKES IT SPECIAL? It’s an honest BMC Farina with its own unique and distinct character – a fi tting fi nale for the Oxford name

BMC was well into ‘badge engineering’ by the time the Morris Oxford Series VI appeared in 1961, so it had to share the limelight with Austin, Morris, MG and Riley variants using the same bodyshell, though each car had its own dashboard and seats, plus exterior chromework.

Although the Morris Oxford Series VI vied with the Austin Cambridge A60 as the least upmarket variant in the range, Cowley’s fi nest still had its own appeal, with neat exterior aspects and a rather fi ne dash that, although bereft of polished wood, did have a rather attractive gold coloured mesh.

The Oxford Series VI had replaced the Series V, and featured lower tail fi ns, a longer wheelbase and an increase in engine capacity from 1489cc to 1622cc – a worthwhile improvement.

Looking at the Oxford in isolation, here was a roomy, comfortable, solidly built and extremely reliable vehicle that was offered at a reasonable price. The simple mechanicals didn’t intrigue anyone at NASA but they were well proven and of good quality. No wonder the Series V remained in production for ten years, during which 208,000 saloons and estates were built.

WHAT IT’S LIKE TO DRIVE?

Once you’ve fi nished savouring the Oxford’s neat lines, clamber into the comfortable driver’s seat and enjoy. Run your fi ngers around the huge steering wheel and admire that neat dashboard and excellent all-round visibility. The whole car feels solid and extremely well made.

Bring the engine to life, gently slot the precise gearchange into nonsynchromesh fi rst gear, reach down to release the right-hand mounted handbrake, and fi nally we’re off .

Acceleration is better than you’d think, and although handling is predictable, this is a vehicle to be gently eased into bends rather than thrown through them. The clutch isn’t too heavy and the drum brakes are good.

Soon you’ll just settle down and enjoy the wonderful gear whine and relaxed ambience. You know you want to!