The Morris Minor 1000 was a huge success following its launch at the London Motor Show in 1956. Although the model range retained many of the characteristics of its predecessors, the Series MM and Series ll split windscreen models, the Morris Minor 1000 range represented a huge step forward both in terms of overall body styling and mechanical performance. The body styling incorporated a changed roof profile to take account of the new one piece front screen and narrower front windscreen pillars. On saloon models revisions allowed for a larger rear screen too. Other changes included fuller rear wings on saloon and convertible models, revised badging to reflect the Morris 1000 branding and amendments to the front grille surrounds. The overall effect was pleasing to the eye and reflected subtle but effective changes which enhanced the general appearance of the vehicles while at the same time improving visibility and adding to driver safety. More significant though was the transformation in terms of overall performance and driving pleasure. The decision to adopt the 948cc A Series engine and to couple it with a much improved gearbox for all models in the range provided a very welcome boost both in terms of acceleration and top speed. The net result was a steady increase in sales with a sizeable proportion of output going for export or being assembled abroad as CKD models. Annual updates with revised and improved interior trim and a vibrant range of exterior paint colours provided prospective customers with a variety of options when choosing their new Morris Minor 1000. Many did, and by 1960 a landmark in sales was fast approaching. It was estimated that by the end of 1960 a million Morris Minors would have been produced since production began back in 1948.
The feat, never before achieved by a British Motor manufacturer, deserved to be marked in a special way. The marketing department at BMC decided to produce a limited edition Morris Minor. Appropriately they called it the Minor Million and cleverly added another three noughts to the Morris 1000 badge. Not only that they painted the 350 limited edition models in a delicate shade of lilac and fitted a contrasting white interior with black piping. Chrome wheel rim embellishers added the final touch to what, in all other respects, were standard Morris 1000 2 door saloons. Sales continued to rise particularly on the home market where the Morris Minor had established an enviable reputation for economy and reliability. By 1962, the Morris Minor was facing tough competition from other BMC products including the Mini. Other models such as the Austin and Morris 1100 were destined to provide a threat to the market share the Morris Minor had traditionally enjoyed. Further updates followed with the introduction in 1962 of the Morris 1000, 1098cc A Series engine, a revised gearbox and improved braking. Then in 1964 the Morris Minor received what was destined to be the last ever major makeover when a revised dash layout, improved lighting, and a new range of interior trim colours were introduced. In an increasingly competitive market place it was inevitable that the Morris Minor would struggle to hold its own without a major facelift or a serious mechanical upgrade. That it stayed in production for so long and achieved the sales it did is remarkable and says much about the loyalty the cars inspired amongst its many owners. The catalyst for the inevitable decision to phase out Morris Minor production was the 1968 merger to form British Leyland. A review of the portfolio revealed that Morris Minor 1000 Convertible production had dwindled to a few hundred in 1968. Not surprisingly the decision was made to phase this model out first in 1969. A year later the 2 door and 4 door saloon models followed, much to the surprise of many. However the Traveller models and the Light Commercial van and pick-up models remained in production. Interestingly the LCV models were subjected to the then common practice of badge engineering. This resulted in Morris Minor vans and pick-ups being sold as Morris Minor models as well as Austin Vans and Pick-ups. Distinguishing features of the Austin models were the Austin 'crinkle' type front grille and Austin badges on the bonnet and the horn push. Production continued in the UK until 1971 when eventually a halt was called to both LCV and Traveller production. However in New Zealand production continued until 1973.
In retrospect, the decision to cease production probably made sense in purely commercial and business terms. However had sentiment played a part, then as in New Zealand, production may have continued for a little longer. With just over a million 948cc and 1098cc Morris 1000 variants built to add to the half a million split screen models built between 1948-1956, the Morris Minor had proved itself to be a motoring success story. Today, scores of Morris Minor Car clubs throughout the world continue to promote the continued use and preservation of the Morris Minor in all its guises. Proof, if proof were needed of the enduring popularity and versatility of one of the best British small family cars ever produced. Few can doubt the charismatic nature of the vehicles which are the subject of this publication or the durability of Alec Issigonis's basic design, conceived back in 1943. For owners past and present and classic car enthusiasts around the world. Reported on are the 2 and 4 door saloons, traveller estates, convertibles, pick-ups and vans. Included are road tests, service data, full specifications, owner reports, plus features on restoration and touring together with buying guides advising on acquiring a good Minor 1000.
