Description
Morgan 4/4 | 1979
Highlights:
– Classic British roadster with charming patina
– Documented UK history with MOT records
– Matching engine and period-correct mechanicals
– Largely unrestored and well-preserved
– Dutch-registered with valid inspection
The seller offers for sale this 1979 Morgan 4/4, a hand-built British two-seater cabriolet with a 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and a manual transmission. This example has covered 31,000 miles. It was originally delivered in the United Kingdom and retained by a dealer (according to Allon White Morgan) before being sold to a private owner and eventually re-acquired by the dealer in 2016. It was resold in 2017, at which point it came into the hands of the current owner. The car comes with a collection of English MOT certificates and some maintenance invoices, though not all documentation is complete.
This Morgan is in what can be described as a well-aged but roadworthy state, reflecting its near-original condition. Mechanically, the car is reported as good. Indicators, brake lights, and headlights function properly. The car is in working order and comes with a valid inspection.
The paintwork is mostly original, with the exception of the hood, and exhibits patina consistent with its age. Light stone chipping is present on the front, and there are some visible marks including a scratch on the front right wing and minor flaws in the painted rubber trim strips typical of this model. The chrome grille shows some ageing, and the painted wire wheels are rated as average in appearance. Optional two-ear knock-off nuts and extra mirrors are fitted. The overall appearance is good.
Inside, the car features a non-original wooden dashboard (original included in the sale), working gauges with a fitted electronic voltage stabiliser, and a wood gear knob and chrome rear-view mirror. The stone-coloured leather upholstery with black/grey wash is original but worn, with surface wear on the seats and door panels. The overall interior shows typical signs of use but maintains its period charm.
The Morgan 4/4, first introduced in 1936, is the longest-running production model in automotive history. Its name derives from “4 wheels, 4 cylinders,” distinguishing it from earlier three-wheeled Morgans. The 1979 model sits within a long tradition of handmade craftsmanship, using a steel chassis with an ash wood frame and aluminium body panels. By this era, Morgan had refined the 4/4 into a reliable and enjoyable roadster, often fitted with Ford-sourced engines such as the Kent 1600cc unit in this example. What sets the Morgan apart is its continuity in design. While many manufacturers updated their vehicles frequently, Morgan kept the 4/4’s classic styling virtually unchanged. This included its cutaway doors, flowing fenders, upright grille, and exposed wheel arches. These elements made the 4/4 feel like a pre-war car well into the 1980s, appealing to traditionalists and enthusiasts alike. Despite the vintage aesthetic, the mechanical components were relatively modern for the time and easy to maintain. Driving a Morgan 4/4 offers a tactile, analog experience. With no power steering or driver aids, the vehicle rewards smooth inputs and offers direct feedback. Its light weight and compact size make it nimble, while the open-top design delivers a visceral connection to the road. The charm of Morgans lies not in perfection, but in their simplicity, craftsmanship, and uniqueness.
This example, with its period patina, UK heritage, and Dutch registration, will likely appeal to buyers who appreciate originality and mechanical authenticity over cosmetic restoration. It offers an accessible entry point into classic British motoring with strong historical roots and a distinctive presence.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
3. Good: Shows typical wear; may require some repairs or part replacements.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
3. Good Condition: May need some mechanical and cosmetic repairs, but can drive.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in North-Brabant, the Netherlands.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Dutch registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
