1925' Morris Oxford 'Bullnose' Van
4 years, 10 months ago
H&H Classics Limited - Imperial War Museum, Duxford Auction
Viewing Day: Tuesday 18th June 2019
Auction Day: Wednesday 19th June 2019 @ 13:00.
Estimate: £14,000 - £18,000
Registration No:UM 4926
Chassis No:88450
MOT:Exempt
- The subject of a ground-up restoration and van conversion in 2013 by John Leech
- Only 300 miles since and offered with an album of photographs
- Complete with trailer reputedly used by the GPO
When the prototype Morris Oxford was displayed at the North of England Motor Show in Manchester in February 1913, it was still very much a work in progress and fitted with a dummy wooden cylinder block. After significant personal investment, bicycle manufacturer William Morris needed his first car, named after his home town, to sell quickly and by the end of March 1913 the first example was off to its new owner. A torpedo-bodied two-seater in pearl grey, it was the first of over 154,000 Morris Oxfords that were produced until 1927.
The Oxford received a mid-life upgrade in 1919 gaining a larger and stronger chassis, improved interior and electricals, and a new engine: first the 11.9hp Hotchkiss, then the 1802cc '14/28' which became standard in 1925 as did four-wheel brakes. Production of the Morris Oxford, nicknamed the 'Bullnose' after its distinctive prominent radiator, peaked in that year when over 54,000 were built giving Morris 42% of Britain's car production.
This wonderfully presented Morris Oxford 'Bullnose' was one of the 1925 models originally finished as a car and was registered in Leeds as 'UM 4926'. Six years ago, it was subjected to a photo-documented restoration described by the vendor as 'ground up' and has completed just 300 miles since. At the time, the decision was made to change the body to that of a commercial, finished in keeping with those of the era. A matching trailer, believed to have been originally built for the General Post Office, was restored and finished in the same brown paintwork. The vendor now describes the bodywork, paint, electrical equipment and gearbox as 'very good' and the engine and interior as 'excellent'.
This great example of a popular early British vehicle comes with a V5, new MOT and history file. A very unusual combination, it would make a great addition to any collection.
