A charming and highly usable 1959 Morris Minor Traveller. Instantly recognisable thanks to its iconic ash-framed rear bodywork, this example combines the much-loved character of the original Traveller with a number of sympathetic upgrades designed to improve modern-day usability. This particular car is fitted with a 1098cc engine with an unleaded head, mated to a Ford Type 9, 5-speed gearbox, making it a more relaxed and practical proposition for regular use. Further upgrades include front and rear seatbelts, an immobiliser, electric screen wash pump, 12v socket and a discreetly installed Kenwood CD/radio located in the glovebox.
Accompanying the car is a substantial history file, documenting nearly £20,000 of servicing, parts and maintenance expenditure over the years, alongside a strong collection of MOT certificates. The paperwork details extensive ongoing maintenance, including rust treatment, new brake shoes, rear springs and mountings, and welding work carried out in 2024. Further notable works include replacement wood to the back door, new piston rings and carburettor work in 2022, along with a replacement starter motor in 2021. The file also includes various service invoices, demonstrating that the car has continued to receive attention and upkeep throughout more recent ownership.
The history file is particularly appealing and includes an original Pearson’s Illustrated Car Servicing book, a substantial MOT history and various documents relating to Charles Ware’s Morris Minor Centre. Also present is a sale invoice from 1999 valuing the car at £4,882, the equivalent of approximately £10,980 in today’s money, together with accompanying sale documents detailing service recommendations and other useful information. The car is understood to have benefited from a comprehensive body-off restoration by renowned Morris Minor specialists Charles Ware in 1999/2000, adding further interest and provenance to this well-documented Traveller.
The 1959 Morris Minor Estate, officially known as the Traveller, is one of the most iconic British station wagons of its era. Designed under the guidance of Sir Alec Issigonis, the man also credited with famous designs such as the Mini. The Traveller is famous for its charming “woody” appearance, practical folding rear seats and dependable A-Series mechanicals. Although often admired for its distinctive ash wood rear frame, the Traveller retained the Morris Minor’s steel monocoque construction, with the timber rear section becoming one of the car’s most recognisable and enduring design features. Inside, the model is simple and functional, typically featuring a painted steel dashboard, dual glove boxes and a central circular Smiths speedometer.
Today, the Morris Minor Traveller remains a highly sought-after classic, admired for its charm, practicality and strong enthusiast following. This example is particularly appealing thanks to its substantial history file, respected Charles Ware restoration history and tasteful usability upgrades, including the 1098cc engine, unleaded head and Ford Type 9 5-speed gearbox. A well-documented and characterful Traveller, ready to be enjoyed as one of Britain’s most recognisable small estates.
