1921 MORRIS OXFORD ‘BULLNOSE’ DOCTOR'S COUPE Registration N...

Hammer

£8,500

1921 MORRIS OXFORD ‘BULLNOSE’ DOCTOR'S COUPE

Registration Number: BF 8753
Chassis Number: TBA
Recorded Mileage: TBA

Introduced in 1913, the basic Morris ‘Bullnose’ design lasted until 1926 by which time its variants accounted for an impressive forty-five per cent of new sales in the UK. Compared to domestic and foreign rivals in the 12hp-14hp market, the model offered notably good performance courtesy of its torquey, four-cylinder engines and light yet robust leaf-sprung chassis. Having originally sourced powerplants from the English White & Poppe outfit, William Morris switched to the cheaper American Continental Motor Manufacturing Corporation and then the French Hotchkiss & Cie firm. The latter’s Coventry factory proved so successful at producing a reworked version of the Continental Red Seal 1.5-litre unit that it was bought by its biggest customer becoming Morris Engines Ltd during 1923. That year also saw production split between the Basic 1548cc ‘Cowley’ (three lamp set, minimal instrumentation) and Deluxe 1802cc ‘Oxford’ (five lamp set, leather upholstery, Dynamotor). Approximately 150,000 Bullnoses were made from 1919-1926 and they remained a familiar sight on British roads until well into the 1960s.

This very tidy example, presented in good usable condition, starts easily and drives very well through its three-speed gearbox. The Morris has been improved with a front brake conversion (the original items are supplied), useful 12 volt electrics and a restored dynamo. With olive green paintwork and a nice black leather interior, this truly charming Morris reminds us of the golden era motoring. Well maintained, and fun to drive, the ‘Bullnose’ is offered with a history file containing manuals and receipts for works completed.