1948 Morgan 4/4 Series I Two-Seater

The Morgan Motor Company is arguably the oldest independent automobile company still in existence, still producing sports cars just as it has for more than 100 years. The Morgan 4/4 (initially designated 4-4) was introduced in 1935 and was the UK manufacturer’s first ever four-wheeled vehicle after previously producing only motorcycle-engined three-wheelers. Originally a two-seater, a more practical 4/4 four-seat version was introduced in 1937 powered by a 34bhp, 1,122 cc Coventry-Climax four-cylinder engine but, when Climax ceased making engines available, Morgan switched to a tuned 1,267cc Standard Ten engine producing 39bhp. Production was halted during World War II but resumed afterwards as the 4/4. Still in production today, the Morgan 4/4 model holds the record for the longest continually produced production car in history.

This stunning, right-hand drive example appears to have been despatched to Cyprus on 29th June 1948 returning to the UK in the 1950s with its first owner who, presumably had been stationed over there. It was with its previous owner from 1966 and was subject to an extensive restoration in 1998 by Four Elms Morgan which included a new chassis, ash frame and new wiring loom. Previous attention included an engine overhaul and the dashboard had been French-polished by the well known eccentric artist and builder of whimsical mechanical moving sculpture, Rowland Emett (more anon). It's supplied with a good history file containing the buff logbook, a collection of invoices and old MOTs, letters, photos and a workshop manual.

Bright Red with gloss black wings may seem a somewhat straightforward colour scheme but, in this case with its smart black leather interior and black wheels, it is striking - a real head turner. In lovely condition all round, this fantastic Morgan is ready to be enjoyed, form part of a private collection, or take to car shows and we welcome any inspection of this crisp little 4/4.