Morris Minor and 1000: books - history and models (1/2)

Morris Minor Traveller - The Complete Companion

For 60 years, the Morris Minor Traveller has been a familiar sight in rural and small-town Britain. With its distinctive half-timbered design in an era of sleek steel cars, it was widely used for transporting children, pets, and everyday goods, despite its modest speed.

Ray Newell provides detailed descriptions of the 803cc, 948cc, and 1098cc Traveller models, including production history and specification changes. He explores unique versions such as the Danish-built 1000 Combi, military and police variants, commercial conversions, and one-off designs - including a hearse and a stretched three-door 'Shooting Brake' from the late 1950s, recently restored.

A key challenge for owners is replacing the timber framework, a complex task. This book features step-by-step guidance from specialist Steve Foreman, with 150 photographs covering dismantling, restoration, and replacement.

The final section discusses performance upgrades, including modern engine options, five-speed gearboxes, and improved braking and suspension.
With 450 color and black-and-white images, including specially commissioned photographs of outstanding examples, this book serves as the ultimate guide for Morris Minor Traveller enthusiasts, owners, and restorers.

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Morris Minor

Launched in 1948, the Morris Minor was a bold and innovative car with advanced engineering and a stylish design influenced by American trends. It was the first major project led by Alec Issigonis, who later became famous for designing the Mini.

Produced for 23 years, the Morris Minor reached a milestone as the first British car to sell over one million units, with total production reaching 1.6 million by 1972. However, its development faced strong resistance from company founder Lord Nuffield before finally being approved.

Available as a saloon, estate, convertible, and van, the Minor was used in racing and rallying and became a beloved everyday car. Today, it remains a cherished classic, with many enthusiasts and clubs dedicated to preserving it.

This book, written by Gillian Bardsley, uses original illustrations from the BMC archive to tell the story of this iconic vehicle. Part of the "Britain's Heritage" series, it offers an informative introduction to the history and legacy of the Morris Minor.

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Morris Minor : 70 years on the road

The postwar Morris Minor, designed by Alec Issigonis, became one of the most popular British cars. In 2018, the model celebrated its 70th anniversary since production began in Cowley, Oxfordshire.

This book by Ray Newell examines the development of the various Morris Minor models produced over its 22-year run in the UK. Drawing on materials from the era, Newell offers a glimpse into a time when life moved slower, and car marketing was very different from today's high-paced advertising.

The global appeal of the Morris Minor is explored in the context of postwar Britain's "export or die" mentality, as well as the innovative production methods that helped Morris Motors maintain its reputation for quality.
The book also looks at variations from standard specifications, including mechanical upgrades, body styles, and modern accessories that enhanced comfort and style. Issigonis's sketches, sales brochures, promotional materials, and rare photographs provide additional insights, making this a compelling read for any enthusiast.

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Morris Minor - MM & Series II - Brooklands Portfolio

Brooklands Portfolio book about the Morris Minor MM and Series II models from the years 1948-1956. Describes the models with splitted backlight: Saloon, Tourer, Traveller, Pick-up and Van.

• The articles, taken from contemporary British and American car magazines, provide much information about history, model changes and technology.
• Also driving impressions, tests, comparison tests, technical specifications, etc.

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More information on the Brooklands Portfolio books

Morris Minor 1000 - Brooklands Portfolio

Brooklands Portfolio book about the Morris Minor 1000 models from the years 1956-1973.

• The articles, taken from contemporary British and American car magazines, provide much information about history, model changes and technology.
• Also driving impressions, tests, comparison tests, technical specifications, etc.

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More information on the Brooklands Portfolio books

Morris Minor: The Biography - Sixty Years of Britain's Favourite Car

The Morris Minor, designed by Sir Alec Issigonis in 1948, was Britain's first mass-market car. Known for its distinctive split windscreen, upright indicators, and unique exhaust sound, it became a beloved classic despite its tendency to rust. By the time production ended in 1972, 1.6 million had been built.

Variants included the Morris Traveller, with its timber-framed body, and the limited-edition Morris Million, painted pink. For many newlyweds and students, it was their first car, while district nurses often used it for their rounds.

In this book, Martin Wainwright explores the history and enduring charm of the Morris Minor. He covers everything from the post-1970s restoration trend to the car's occasional habit of its bonnet flying open at speed, blocking the driver's view.

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