1939 Morris 10/M

History:

The Morris 10/M was launched in 1938 as a completely new model, featuring unitary body construction — a significant departure from its predecessor, the Series III — although its external styling remained largely unchanged. Under the hood, it introduced the new 1,140cc X-Series engine, which produced 37bhp (28kW) at 4,600rpm. Like the earlier M-Series engine, it used an overhead valve (OHV) layout, but the X-Series was a fresh design developed in response to the M-Series' disappointing performance and reliability. The M-Series had roots in older Morris side-valve engines, whereas the X-Series incorporated modern engineering influences from contemporary American cars. These included a free-flow 8-port cylinder head, a pressurized pump-driven cooling system, a fully filtered lubrication system and an automatic tensioner for the camshaft chain.

Alongside the Vauxhall 10-4, the Series M was among the first mass-produced British vehicles to feature an OHV engine. It earned praise for its smooth operation, fuel efficiency and quiet performance, reaching a top speed of around 62mph (100kph). However, the rest of its mechanical components remained fairly conventional — even outdated by some standards — with solid axles and longitudinal leaf springs front and rear. Although Morris had drawn up plans to equip the car with more advanced features such as independent front suspension and rack-and-pinion steering, these ideas were abandoned due to cost and marketing concerns. Interestingly, some of these components later appeared in the post-war MG Y-Type saloon.

For civilian buyers, the Series M was offered exclusively as a saloon with an optional sunroof. During WWII however, a variety of pick-up style bodies were produced for military use. These were among many similar utility vehicles from British manufacturers collectively nicknamed 'Tillies'. The car was also assembled in India, where it was marketed as the Hindustan 10.

The Car:

First registered in March 1939, this Morris 10/M was originally supplied by Reeve & Stedeford Ltd of Broad Street, Birmingham, at a purchase price of £199, 4 shillings and 8 pence (equivalent to approximately £199.20 in today’s currency). Remarkably, the car still retains its original purchase letter, guarantee and registration document.

Since January 1978, the car has had just two previous owners with the current keeper acquiring it in December 1984 with the intention of carrying out a full restoration after it had spent many years off the road. However, due to other ongoing restoration projects, the vehicle remained stored under cover until work finally began in 2019. The full restoration was completed in the spring of 2021, with comprehensive photographic documentation capturing each stage of the project, undertaken by two dedicated family members.

Now beautifully finished in black paintwork, optioned with the added extra of a sunroof, the car features a freshly trimmed tan vinyl interior with matching door cards and elegant cream carpets. Electrical upgrades include a newly fitted wiring loom with integrated flashers, conversion to negative earth and the installation of an electronic cut-out box ensuring a charging performance comparable to that of an alternator.

Further mechanical enhancements include the removal of the cylinder head to fit hardened valve seats, making the engine compatible with unleaded fuel, along with an upgrade to LED headlight bulbs. While all receipts for professional work carried out during the restoration have been retained, the receipt for the interior restoration (including seats, headlining, and carpeting) is unfortunately not available.

Since completion, the Morris has been proudly displayed at various local car shows and major events such as the Hollowell Steam Rally, Banbury Steam Rally, Welland Steam Rally, Gloucester Vintage Rally at South Cerney and the Morris Register Annual Rally near Mansfield. It was driven to all these events and also served as a wedding car for the vendor’s grandson in October 2024.

This charming and fully restored Morris 10/M is now ready to be driven, enjoyed, and shown by its next enthusiastic custodian

Location: Northamptonshire

Seller: Private

Photographs: Professional