In Brief:

• A terrific example of an MO series Oxford
• Finished in Black over a Red leather interior
• 5 former keepers
• In the ownership of the current keeper for the last 5 years
• Accompanied by a great history file including lots of orginal documentation

Auctioneer’s Notes:

A charming and well-presented example of the 1953 Morris Oxford MO, finished in Black over a Red interior and offered with a wonderful blend of originality and documented history. First registered in December 1953, this particular car boasts a fascinating provenance, retaining its original purchase invoice from Wadham Bros of Southsea, showing a total cost of £783 7s 2d including taxes, number plates and delivery. Now accompanied by both current and original log books, a period sales brochure, heritage certificate and a comprehensive file of invoices, this Oxford presents as a superb example.

Maintenance & Condition:

Following a period of long-term storage prior to 2004, the car was subject to a thorough recommissioning programme by a previous keeper. Works carried out included a new wiring loom, replacement headlamps, rechromed bumper sections, new over-riders, stainless steel fuel tank, clutch kit, re-cored radiator, brake pipes, solid state fuel pump, stainless steel exhaust, tyres and tubes, along with bonnet and boot hinges and numerous other items. The car presents very well today, with a notably well-preserved red leather interior, which is believed to retain its original carpets.

History:

Supplied new in December 1953, the car was originally delivered to Mrs E.M. Eastabrook of Cosham, Hampshire. It is understood to have had just three further owners before being acquired by a previous keeper in June 2004, at which point it had reportedly been off the road and in storage for at least a decade. By 2016, the car was presented in such fine condition that it featured on the front cover of the owner’s club calendar. The history file is particularly impressive, including the aforementioned original purchase invoice, heritage certificate, period brochure, old and current log books and a substantial collection of invoices detailing maintenance and restoration work over the years.

The Model:

Introduced in 1948 and designed by the renowned Alec Issigonis, the Morris Oxford MO shared much of its design philosophy with the Morris Minor, albeit in a larger and more refined package. Powered by a 1.5-litre side-valve straight-four engine producing approximately 41bhp, driving through a four-speed column-change gearbox, the Oxford offered dependable performance with a top speed of around 72mph. Featuring hydraulic drum brakes all round and rack-and-pinion steering, it was considered advanced for its time. The interior was well appointed, offering practical touches such as a full-width shelf beneath the dashboard, opening quarter lights, and instrumentation including an oil pressure gauge and ammeter. Over 159,900 examples were produced before UK production ceased in 1954.

Sale Insight:

A delightful example of a post-war British saloon, this Morris Oxford MO stands out thanks to its combination of originality, detailed history and extensive recommissioning work. This Oxford would make a fine addition to any classic collection or an enjoyable entrant into classic motoring.

Estimate:
£3,000 - £4,000