Barn Find Project

1931 Morris Cowley Folding Head Saloon

Make: Morris
Model: Cowley Folding Head Saloon
Year: 1931
Registration Number: RV 486
Chassis Number: 351149
Engine Number: 392 866
Transmission: Manual
Steering: Right Hand Drive
MOT Test Expiry: Exempt
Sold For: £4840
Road Tax Exempt

Following on from the ubiquitous Bullnose, the Flatnose Cowley was produced from 1927 to 1931 and could be purchased in a number of different body styles.

RV 486 is a rare Folding Head Saloon and is believed to be complete. Power comes from the 1548cc, 11.9hp Hotchkiss type four cylinder side valve engine with magneto ignition and drives through a manual gearbox. Artillery wheels are fitted as standard. The Folding Head allows for the front half of the roof to be folded back as a sunroof.

The late owner, Mr Bernard Griffiths, purchased the Morris in 1969 for £47.17s and the receipt is on file together with several photographs of the motor car in use. It was driven into the barn in about 1990 with a clutch problem and the gearbox removed. Sadly the work was never completed but the engine definitely turns freely.

The coachwork appears sound and correct. The interior seems original and it is thought that a good clean may well rejuvenate the whole motor car so that some might enjoy the splendour of originality and go no further.

The Cowley comes with Buff Registration Book RF60A and two continuation books, a file of photographs and the receipt as mentioned.