Beach Buggy: 1959 Morris Minor 1000 Traveler – SOLD!

November 30, 2021 Update – While this Morris Minor “Classifind” was recently deleted by the seller, given their past history we suspect may not actually be sold yet.  For now, we’re labeling this ride “Sold?” However, we will keep an eye out for an updated listing. In the interim, please reach out either by email or call Rudy directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

November 14, 2021 Update – The Internet and GuysWithRides.com never forget a great “Classifind” listed for sale.  Apparently, after not finding a buyer this past spring, the seller elected to enjoy their nicely restored 1959 Morris Minor Traveler Woody Wagon.  This time around, they lowered their asking price by one thousand dollars to land at the current ask of $17,500.

March 17, 2021 Update – We just confirmed the listing for this “Classifind” expired, so with no replacement found we’re assuming this ride “Sold?” unless we come across a new listing for it”

In stock condition, Morris Minor Travellers are neat little authentic woody wagons that easily fit in your garage and are the most affordable of the genre.  This restored 1959 example originally listed in March 2021 on Craigslist in Kissimmee, Florida takes it up a notch by featuring the complete replacement of the original Lucas electrical wiring with a modern Hot Rod loom.

This combined with a great color combination makes this Traveller a great summer cruiser for the revised asking price of $17,500 (the original ask last Spring was $18,500).  Comparing this price against the Hagerty Insurance Online Valuation Tool confirms this private seller has their Minor priced between the #2 “Excellent” appraisal of $14,100 and the #1 “Concours” estimate of $19,600.

If you’re not familiar with these cars, here’s an excellent written summary by Hagerty Insurance on the Morris Minor:

“The Morris Minor was a milestone of automotive accomplishment for not only Great Britain but for the world. It was Britain’s first million-unit seller, making it a true “people’s car” with over 1.5 million built before production ceased. It began production in 1948, but the 1000 series discussed here began production in 1956 with the then-new A-series 948-cc overhead-valve engine of 37 hp. These cars were also recognizable by their standard one-piece windshield, along with Minor 1000 badging. The final engine upgrade occurred in 1962, when a 49-hp A-series engine of 1,098 cc became standard. The badging remained 1000, however, in a bid for familiarity with prospective customers.

Designed by Alec Issigonis, later of Mini design fame, the Minor 1000 had performance that eventually extended to a top speed of 70 mph, slightly faster than the 1,200 cc Volkswagen Beetle of the same era. The chassis was well ahead of its time, with rack-and-pinion steering, torsion-bar front suspension, and unitary welded one-piece body sans separate frame.

The car was available in two-door sedan or four-door sedan body styles, as well as the now much loved and collectible Traveller “woodie” two-door station wagon and two-door convertible. The convertible had side rails surrounding side glass in much the same way that the 1950s Nash Rambler did. There were pickup truck and van versions that were sold in England as well. Imports into the States trickled down to nearly nothing by the late 1960s.

In Britain, these cars are ubiquitous at collector car events in much the same way that 1955–57 Chevrolets or early Mustangs are in North America, but here in the States, they are much less common. The kind of people who bought Minors new were typically people who didn’t want the idiosyncrasies of Volkswagen Beetles, but who appreciated well-engineered, conventional small cars. For such a diminutive car, rarity and a loyal following make for higher values than you’d think, especially in the United States where they are rarer than in England. As with most cars, convertibles tend to be valued most highly, and the Traveler woodies are treated with the same adoration as the similarly laden Minis.“

Additionally, we came across this great buyer’s guide on YouTube from a few years back on what to look for when buying a Morris Traveller 1000:

The combination of replacement wood already installed combined with a complete wiring upgrade and reupholstered interior have us believe this will make a great conversation starter everywhere you decide to drive it.  Good luck with the purchase!

Here’s the seller’s description:

“Selling our 1959 Morris Minor Woody Traveler Staton Wagon. Completely restored a few years ago. All new wood from England along with other parts from the restoration. New Hot Rod wiring harness, alternator. There is no British wires left! The engine is rebuilt from a shop in Orlando, new Petronix distributor with all electronic ignition. LED lights for safety. Record radiator. Radial tires and new, updated H2 carburetor. Runs great cool beach Jeep.
Interior is redone red and white pipe ing and comfortable. 4-speed manual trans, fold-down rear seat. Has tinted windows in the rear, super nice roof rack vintage with surfboard and water ski. Also added a safety flag like the Dune Buggies. Most of the body, paint, motor, and woodwork is 9-10 years old.
Great little car fun head turner. $18500.00. Call if interested. Located in central Florida
Do Not Need Help Selling, call if you want to see it in person. Certified bank check and cash accepted. I meet at the So. Kissimmee rt 17/92 Wawa for safety NOWHERE else. Thanks for looking. Do not text is it still available call the number listed after you do the safety checks“

Do you have a Morris Minor Traveller 1000 story you’d like to share?  Comment below and let us know!