Well Bought
Morris smashes estimate by almost double
Morris 8
There’s no demand for it, surely?
Sadly the bar room experts have for too long been foisting their opinions on us, harping on about the tail-off in demand for post-war saloons. But think again; the immediate post-war period was one of the British motor industry’s greatest, giving us in one year alone the Jaguar XK120, the Land Rover and the Morris Minor. This gem was from the same year.
The details kicked up interest.
Look a bit more closely at an Eight and you’ll see a small but smart car for those wanting something a bit more upmarket than a same-size Ford. This example had been owned by the vendor for 15 years and they had bought it from a friend – a good slice of ownership longevity which is more impressive than a string of owners over a short period. This example impressed thanks to its all-round condition. The bodywork was straight, there were no signs of corrosion and the doors hung well. The engine bay and the boot were tidy and the interior was a pleasing place to be, seats and carpet being nicely mellowed. It presented well. Things got better when it was driven into the hall; it started on the button.
But cars like this struggle to sell?
If that’s the case, why did this Eight attract so much attention? Plenty of Poole punters weren’t just giving it a quick glance: instead there was plenty of up-close examination by those who were clearly ripe for a bid or two. The estimate was tempting too, and that should have drawn in buyers who might ordinarily have gone for the Eight’s replacement, a Morris Minor.
Its usability helped win it bids.
It would be usable, in much the same way a BSA Bantam motorcycle was, taking people to and from work and on weekend jaunts. OK, it wouldn’t be fast, but Eights are easy to drive and work on and don’t take up too much room. And you don’t see many in the Goodwood Revival’s car park.