Lot 376: 1927 Morris Cowley 11.9hp Two Seater and Dickey

When William Morris launched his Morris Oxford Light Car in 1913 he could have had little idea of the impact that his famous Bullnose-radiatored cars would have on bringing motoring to the masses in the U.K. Initially powered by White & Poppe engines, Morris was later to adopt the Continental engine and subsequently the Hotchkiss engine, a sturdy unit indeed which powered the Cowley and Oxford models, as well as being the basis for the first MG cars and also Morris Commerials. The 11.9hp Cowley sold in greatest numbers and was offered in various guises including four seater tourer, doctor’s coupé, commercial traveller’s car and the hugely popular two seater with dickey. William Morris finally forsook the distinctive Bullnose radiator with the announcement of the Flatnose range of cars for the 1927 season. Mechanically the Cowley remained much the same as its Bullnose predecessor but the coachwork was much more angular, reflecting current fashions and a hint of American influence. The Cowley was designed for economy motoring, was keenly priced and its success drove many smaller manufacturers to the wall in the late 1920’s. This attractive Cowley was first registered on 24th March 1927 and was acquired by the late George Fearn just three years ago. It carries a supplier’s plate from Burgon & Ball Ltd of Sheffield and is nicely equipped with gaitered springs, Rotax spotlamp, luggage rack, side screens, electric Klaxon and bulb horn, a Pratts 2 gallon petrol can and a radiator calormeter. The car is believed to have been last taxed to May 2002 and probably not run since acquisition by its late owner. It is thought that the clutch is presently stuck and the car will need gentle recommissioning. This very original motor car comes with a Swansea V5 registration document and an old style buff log book recording ownership since 1946.