Lot 030: 1930 MORRIS COWLEY SALOON

Surprisingly capable on unmade roads thanks to its robust but flexible chassis, torquey four-cylinder engines and decent ground clearance, the 'Flatnose' Morris proved a considerable export success. Built on 9th October 1930, this particular example was delivered new to a gold miner in Soroti (Uganda) by the name of Capt RJ Von Mentzer. Equipped with uprated leaf-sprung suspension, water pump and folding-head roof, it was still in his possession some twenty-eight years later when he moved to Kitale (Kenya). Sadly, its second keeper, a bat guano farmer called Renshaw Barberton, was less cosseting. Converted into a milk float, it had lain abandoned for some time when the vendor discovered it in 1964. With its original coachwork unearthed too, the decrepit Morris was towed to Kericho (Kenya) and duly rejuvenated. Used for a number of long distance rallies, it soon became part of the family entourage moving with them to first Malawi in 1968 and then Rhodesia (Zimbabwe) some two years later. A veteran of both the October 1970 Mobil 2nd Rhodesian National Vintage Motor Rally and the AA 50th Anniversary Rally at Zimbabwe Ruins Fort Victoria, it was given an overdue second rebuild in 1989 before being shipped to the UK in 1997. Since then, its enthusiastic owner of the past forty-one years has had it rewired and re-trimmed (though we are informed that the interior requires some minor finishing). Treated to an engine overhaul in 2001 (pistons / rings, magneto and dynastart etc), it was fitted with a new clutch the same year. Finished in its original livery of maroon over black with brown upholstery, it has recently benefited from a new battery (2005) and fresh tyres (2004). Said to be suffering from a slight water leak and some bubbling / scratches to its paintwork, the vendor believes this remarkable car to have covered just 54,990 miles from new. Featured in a November 2004 edition of the BBC programme 'Cash in the Attic', it is offered for sale with large history file, original jack, luggage trunk, petrol can and various trim pieces / spares.