Offered from The Robert Lusk Collection; two owners from new; 80 years in first family ownership
1930 Morris 17.7hp Isis Six Saloon

Morris sixes were around in small numbers in the early 1920s but the company's first serious effort did not materialise until 1927, with the appearance at the Olympia Motor Show of the Light Six. Based on that of the Wolseley 16/45, the latter's JA-type engine was a 2,468cc overhead-camshaft unit with an RAC rating of 17.7hp. The first production examples shared the Oxford's 48" track dimension, but this was widened to 56" early in 1928, when the model name was changed to 'Morris Six'. The latter designation disappeared in July 1929 with the arrival of the Isis, which retained the 17.7hp OHC engine but otherwise was almost entirely different, featuring a new chassis, all-steel Budd body (hence the American appearance) and Lockheed hydraulic brakes. Other innovations included radiator shutters, Triplex safety glass and chromium plated brightwork, while three body styles were available: saloon, four-seater tourer and club coupé. Fast and well-appointed - if rather expensive - the original Isis did not last long, its place in the Morris line-up being taken in 1931 by a more traditionally styled and constructed version. By the time production ceased, a total of 3,929 cars had been built.

Robert Lusk purchased the Morris at Bonhams' sale at the RAF Museum, Hendon in April 2010 (Lot 343). At that time we described the car as follows:

"A 1931 model first registered on 17th October 1930, this 'barn find' Isis has been laid up since 1956. It is said to have been running correctly at that time with the exception of slight fuel starvation attributed to a malfunctioning carburettor. The vendor believes that the car had covered relatively few miles but unfortunately the speedometer is missing.

The car's purchase is recorded in the vendor's grandfather's diary entry dated 14th October 1930 (photocopy available): 'To Leeds with RHB to inspect M. cars at Appleyard's Ltd, North Street. Bought a Morris "Isis" saloon 1931 Model and they took our Delaunay in part payment. The Morris "Isis" was sent over to Burtonfields this aftn.' (Burtonfields Hall is the family home and the 'RHB' referred to is the vendor's father).

At Burtonfields Hall the Morris took up residence in the coach house, which would become its permanent home from 1956. The vendor's grandfather died in 1938 and the accompanying continuation logbook (issued 1939) records his son, the vendor's father, as first owner. It is said that the latter found the Morris ideally suited for the wearing of a top hat, making it a perfect choice for the opera-loving motoring enthusiast.

'WF 3688' is completely original and in very sound, virtually corrosion-free condition. The interior displays some signs of ageing but with careful application of hide food could be reconditioned, which would be a more sympathetic option than replacement."

Wonderfully patinated, the Morris remains in unrestored rust-free condition. Sympathetically stored by Robert and used as part of his collection, it was said to run well. Notable features include Lucas headlamps, hydraulic brakes and the original interior, including its carpets and accessories. Accompanying rally plaques include the Senlac Classic Car Show, Bodiam, June 2012; 21st Senlac Classic Car Show, Bodiam, June 2013; 25th Senlac Classic Car Show, Bodiam, June 2016; and Festival of Transport, August 2012, Broad Farm, Hellingly.

It is not known when the car last ran and thus it is offered in need of recommissioning and sold strictly as viewed. The last tax disc expired on 31/12/14. Accompanying documentation includes a V5C Registration Certificate; an old-style RF60 logbook (1947); and an old V5 registration document. The car also comes with an owner's manual, an operations manual, and a large quantity of invoices for various parts and services including shock absorbers, tyres, fuel gauge and sender, clutch re-cork, brake reline, brake cylinder and hoses, and carburettor overhaul.

Offered with key.