1959 Morris Minor 1000 Convertible

Description

The Morris Minor 1000, introduced in 1956 as an evolution of the post‑war Minor lineup, remains one of Britain’s most beloved classic economy cars. Praised for its charming design, light handling, and surprising practicality, the Minor 1000 helped mobilize post‑war Britain and became an enduring symbol of approachable motoring. Its simple engineering, lightweight chassis, and unmistakable Alec Issigonis styling continue to make it an icon.

This 1959 Morris Minor 1000 Convertible ("Tourer") is finished in medium green over a sage green vinyl interior with a tan soft top. Said to be largely stock mechanically, a previous owner installed an updated stereo in the glovebox, a modern upgrade without detracting from the original interior aesthetics. The seller reports that the car has been used in commercial and promotional shoots in the wine country surrounding Napa, California.

This charming 1959 Morris Minor 1000 is now offered with 1956-issue California license plates, a spare set of new tires, and transferable New York state registration in the seller’s name.

Vehicle Summary

• Powered by a 948cc A‑Series inline‑four with dual SU carburetors

• 4‑speed manual gearbox, rear-wheel drive, and live rear axle configuration

• Finished in medium green over sage green vinyl with a tan convertible soft top

• Reportedly imported new to California, fitted with 1956-issue license plates

• The chassis number (FCB4627931) decodes as:

  • F – Vehicle model: Morris Minor

  • C – Body style: Convertible (Tourer)

  • B – Paint color code: Light Grey

  • 4 – Sales market: North America (LHD export)

  • 6 – Paint type: Cellulose body with synthetic wings

  • 27931 – Sequential production number

Factory Equipment

• Center dash-mounted Smiths instrumentation

• Banjo style three-spoke steering wheel

• Convertible Tourer body configuration

• Steel wheels with chrome hubcaps

• 12‑volt electrical system

Modifications

• Updated Pioneer stereo hidden in glovebox

Servicing

From the seller: “The car starts reliably and shifts through the gears without any issue. The brakes were serviced in 2019 and work well. The car is also outfitted with an electrical kill switch, which is helpful for storage.”

Known Imperfections

• Some corrosion noted on undercarriage and drivetrain components (see photo gallery)

• Cosmetic imperfections consistent with age and road use

• Odometer inoperable (zeroed out; true mileage unknown)

• Some interior wear consistent with age and road use

Ownership History

From the seller: “The previous owner told me the car was imported into California, and the license plates were the originals issued. However, the vehicle is a ‘59 and the plates are ‘56, so I’m not entirely sure how plates worked back them. The car was in California since new until it moved to New York in 2022.”

Included Items

• 1956-issue California license plates

• Spare set of unused tires

• Jack and spanner

• Boot cover

• Spare tire