Morris Minor Traveller

ENGINE 1098cc/4-cyl/OHV POWER 48bhp@5100rpm TORQUE 60lb ft@2500rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 77mph 0-60MPH 24.8 sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 30-40mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed manual MoT 12 months ODOMETER 23,749 miles

We struggled to find any fault with this Minor’s performance. The engine starts easily (although the battery needed to be jumped as it had been standing for a while) but idles happily, keeping good temperature. What performance the little A-series has is delivered eagerly, with no untoward noises, while the suspension also does its work quietly. Having been fitted with disc brakes and a servo, the car stops more keenly than most Minors.

BODYWORK CHECK

The multiple receipts from the same wood frame specialist show that this Traveller has had its wood replaced multiple times. The frame currently on the car in good, usable condition, though clearly not freshly installed. The metal bodywork is in good condition, too, with a small paint imperfection on the offside rear wing the only real blemish. The rubber windscreen seal could do with being replaced, but the car wears four Nankang tyres, which show good tread and no signs of cracking. The chromework, including the bumpers, grille and hubcaps, are all in good condition, with little pitting.

HOW’S THE INTERIOR?

The vinyl seats show superficial cracking in places but are otherwise very good, as is the matching vinyl elsewhere. This is with the exception of the rear wheel arch covers, which are considerably creased and even showing small tears. A few easily replaceable metal bits in the interior are corroded, namely the gear lever, windscreen demist vents and the steel of the Moto-Lita steering wheel. Harder to rectify are the scratches on both the painted dash and the speedometer’s surround. An aftermarket auxiliary gauge panel has been installed in front of the driver, but annoyingly only the temperature dial is a periodcorrect Smiths item.

UNDER THE BONNET

The carburettor and inlet manifold have been recently reconditioned and most of the ignition system is new. The car benefits from an alternator conversion and the brake servo is fitted unobtrusively low down in the engine bay. An electric SU fuel pump has also been fitted to the car’s bulkhead, which lets out loud clicks that are audible even over the engine. There are many squashed fins on the radiator, but a small leak under the distributor is the only rogue oil we could find.

THE CCW VIEW

This Minor is a very well sorted car that has benefitted from care during long-term ownership. It’s not a concours car, as it has clearly been used, but that will make it much more reliable for the new owner. Sort the easy-to-do bits in the interior and enjoy the car as a Traveller should be enjoyed.