The Morris Minor Cabriolet - Page 2
The Minor Cabriolet is not simply a one-off custom Minor. It is a modernised classic which has been carefully designed for a limited production run, with all the necessary jigs and fixtures for manufacture made ready. The vehicle utilises the major core structure of an original two-door Minor saloon, with the body shell reconstructed in the Cabriolet form, and is strengthened in both beam and torsion to give adequate stiffness in open top form. It is equipped with an integral crash-worthy roll-over structure which interlocks with the newly designed hood assembly. Increased side protection has been incorporated. The shell features many detailed modifications, including fully fireproofed rear bulkhead with the fuel tank mounted internally, with a recessed filler cap on the nearside.
Improvements to the boot lid are internal hinges, gas struts and remote release. The rear wings have been redesigned to take a wider track rear axle. A modern filled wheelarch look is achieved with wide light alloy rims. Particularly noticeable is the equal body width of the front and rear wings. Flush-fitting rear light clusters have been developed to enhance the uncluttered lines of the rear coachwork.
The cleanness of the original Issigonis shape has been enhanced by removing all exterior chrome-work and fittings, and using colour-matched items. This approach has been further developed by using frameless door glass and compact hood stowage which gives eye catching lines when the top is down.
Particularly striking is the interior which has been fitted out by our associated company, Classic Trim. The colour scheme is grey and is of vinyl material with cloth inserts. The rear seats are of a new construction and design. Front seats are Cobra recliners trimmed and covered by Classic Trim. The original metal dash panel is retained with additional instrumentation.
The Series IV suspension and braking system comprises of front disc brakes and enlarged rear drums with servo assistance. Telescopic dampers are fitted outboard of the inner rear wings and with correctly rated front units give excellent ride and handling with low roll angles. The rear axle is a timkin axle from a Ford Capri 1600 and is controlled by angled radius arms mounted above and forward of the rear axle.
Of major importance has been the parallel development of a bellhousing assembly which allows a variety of gearboxes to be fitted. These include the Ford 200E and Pinto four-speed all synchromesh units from a Cortina and mark 11 Escorts, and the more modern five-speed units from the Sierra. The Ford gearboxes when fitted to a tuned version of a 1275cc A-Plus engine, give a perfectly matched engine and transmission specification retaining an authentic BMC look to the engine compartment.