WHAT IT’S LIKE TO DRIVE

CHRIS HOPE FEATURES EDITOR

As I slide myself behind the large steering wheel and on to a nicely supportive seat, it strikes me that perhaps only a handful of people have had the opportunity to do the same with what is one of the most important Morris Minors ever built. Moreover, Tom had mentioned over lunch that in driving it to Combe Abbey today, he’d driven it the furthest that it had ever been following its restoration. By the time I’d finished my drive, therefore, I would have driven it the second furthest distance. Gulp.

Understandably then I was on high alert for my first couple of miles, listening out for the merest of knocks from the suspension or hesitation from the engine of this freshly restored classic. But I needn’t have worried – it drove beautifully.

Tom had warned that the gear lever had a stiff action but it ‘s been some time since I’d had the pleasure of piloting a Moggy so

I had so such complaint, easily snicking between ratios to make the most of this car’s modest performance, with a characterful rasp from the exhaust as the revs gradually built.

With it being original throughout, it’s fair to say that this example drives no different from any other Morris Minor – though I mean that as a wholly positive statement. The feeling of it being ‘special’ though – and it does without doubt have a distinct aura – comes from its story and the condition that it is in today.

No other Morris Minor saloon can claim to be the last one built, and with it not being afforded a life as a museum exhibit the Morris Minor Owners’ Club has clearly relished the opportunity to weave its influence into this unique car’s story. Truly, everything about this car is exceptional – it was a privilege to drive it.