1983 Morgan 4/4 - Remarkably Documented/Two Owners From New
The Morgan 4/4 is the longest-running production model in the history of the Morgan Motor Company, first introduced in 1936 and remaining in continuous production in various forms for many decades. The 4/4 name refers to its four-cylinder engine and four wheels, distinguishing it from the earlier three-wheeled Morgans. Built around Morgan’s traditional combination of a lightweight ash-framed body, separate chassis and hand-finished coachwork, the 4/4 has become one of Britain’s most recognisable traditional sports cars, celebrated as much for its character and craftsmanship as for the driving experience it provides.
This beautifully presented 1983 Morgan 4/4 is a particularly special example, not simply for its condition and attractive Royal Ivory exterior, but for the remarkable history that accompanies it. First registered in 1983, the Morgan has had just two previous owners from new and comes with an unusually personal and comprehensive collection of documentation which provides a fascinating record of its life.
Finished in the wonderfully traditional shade of Royal Ivory with a black interior, the car has all the unmistakable presence of a classic Morgan. Its traditional proportions, exposed front wings, upright grille and hand-built character give it the timeless appearance that has made the Morgan 4/4 such an enduring British sports car.
The real story of this Morgan, however, is found within the history folder. Amongst the extensive documentation are several handwritten notebooks which offer an extraordinary insight into the care and affection lavished upon the car over the years. On the very first page is written, “1983 Morgan 4/4, bought 2/2/1988, 18677 miles, colour Royal Ivory”. From there, the owner meticulously recorded virtually every journey undertaken in the Morgan, together with the mileage, from 1988 right through to 2021. These personal records make for fascinating reading. Every trip, outing and use of the Morgan was carefully noted, while amongst the diary entries Mr W also recorded servicing, replacement parts, repairs and the various smaller jobs carried out over the years. It is rare to find such an intimate record of a classic car's life, and these notebooks provide an unusually clear picture of a Morgan that was genuinely loved, carefully maintained and used sympathetically.
The Morgan formed part of Mr W's collection of cars and, as the years progressed, its use naturally became less frequent. It was, however, his wife's favourite car from the collection, making its place within the family particularly special. The handwritten records continue for many years and are a real testament to the care and attention that this Morgan received throughout its ownership. The history folder also contains the original Morgan 4/4 Owners Handbook, within which is the handwritten bill of sale recording the purchase of the Morgan by Mr W in 1988 for £8,500. There is also a small collection of period photographs, a substantial selection of old tax discs, a large number of previous MOT certificates and numerous invoices dating back as far as the 1980s.
The earliest documented history is equally impressive. Included is the original bill of sale from Cliffsea Car Sales of Essex, dated 16th November 1983, recording the sale to the first owner, Mr Atkins, for £8,336.89. The car has retained its original registration number plates throughout its life, and MOT documentation can be traced back as far as 1986.
The Morgan has also enjoyed an association with the Morgan Members Club, with years of club membership documentation included within the history file. Together with the MOT certificates, period invoices, tax discs, photographs and, most importantly, the handwritten driving and maintenance records, the folder gives a wonderfully personal feel to the car. It is not simply a collection of paperwork; it is a record of how this Morgan was owned, enjoyed and cared for over several decades.
Examples such as this are becoming increasingly difficult to find. A genuine two-owner-from-new Morgan with its original specification, attractive Royal Ivory coachwork and an extensive history file would be desirable in its own right, but the depth and personality of the documentation accompanying this car make it particularly appealing to the enthusiast who values provenance as much as presentation.
Offered by Milestone Classics, this 1983 Morgan 4/4 represents a charming opportunity to acquire a traditional British sports car with a remarkably well-recorded past. The combination of its Royal Ivory finish, black interior, long-term ownership and exceptional personal history makes this a Morgan with genuine character and provenance.
Viewings are by appointment only.
PRICE: £15995