1972 Austin Minor Van

Launched in 1953 and lasting in production for twenty years, the BMC Austin and Morris Minor quarter ton van and pick-up had a separate chassis (rather than the moncoque structure of their Morris siblings) and benefitted from technicalities such as stiffer rear springs and lower-ratio differentials in the rear axle to manage heftier loads. They found favour both with small businesses and with larger industries too, such as Southern Electric and the GPO, as well as the RAC and the AA. These small, economical Morris and Austin Commercials continue to be extremely popular today. They are a quirky and noticeable advertising platform for any business, are versatile for many uses and have the advantage of a plentiful and inexpensive spares back up.

This Dorset registered 1972 Austin example was, we understand, originally owned by Poole Borough Council and used by its chief electrician. We are informed that a thorough restoration was carried out in 1989, which included a re-paint to the current green colour and the professional hand-written signage on the sides. The paintwork remains good, apart from some minor blemishes, as one would expect. Overall, the vendor tells us that the Austin has clearly been well-looked after and is in very good order; the interior is good with Vanden Plas re-covered front seats and replacement carpets with little wear. It is equipped with a sunroof. The spare tyre is new, as is the battery. Mechanically, the Van has been upgraded with servo-assisted front disc brakes and electronic ignition.

The history file contains the V5C registration certificate, a valuation certificate and MOT test certificates dating from 2008.

Auction Date: 23 November 2016