The Morris Minor Cabriolet - Specifications

The shell structure has been developed in Cabriolet form, embodying longitudinal, lateral, and torsional strength, and includes a purpose-built integral roll-frame. Also included are side impact bars and a cross tube fitted beneath the front seats.

The shell is beautifully redesigned, and enhances all the contours of the original shell structure, the good looks promoting an eye-catching display of a well balanced design.

All panels and structures have been productionised, and repair systems are readily available for any future supply requirement.

Engine

A choice of engines in standard or tuned versions of the A­series units is available, obtained from companies such as Minisport, Avonbar and Oselli. Also a special twin cam version head unit by KAD can be fitted. Engine capacities start from 1275cc to the big 1400cc units and give varied power outputs up to 180bhp. We can also fit the Fiat twin cam versions and shortly a single cam Fiat engine. Our R&D programme is projected to produce an adaptation of the Peugeot Turbo Diesel engine. Other engine specifications will also be available as and when developments are made.

Gearboxes

The weakness with the Morris Minor, has been with the standard 1098cc gearbox which will not accept larger power inputs or mishandling. It has been acceptable to fit a 1275 sprite box but again they are limited by a non synchromesh 1st gear. To marry and obtain a good combination of strong and efficient gearboxes for the engine specifications, we have paralleled a development of a universal bellhousing which has been designed to take anyone of several Ford gearboxes, such as the Ford Pinto, 2000E or Sierra 5-speed units. These boxes ideally match the power outputs from the engines available. However, in the case of the Fiat Twin Cam, we use the Fiat 5-speed units. A gearbox, when fitted, is covered by a special sound proofed laminated cover, which reduces transmission noise dramatically.

Clutch

With fitting of the universal gearbox system a special diaphragm clutch, which includes a roller thrust race is fitted. The unit is operated by a special hydraulic system fed from a header tank in the engine bay.

Axle

With the increased power outputs from the larger engines, a stronger axle is required. We supply a choice ranging from a Ford, Atlas, Timken, Triumph, Fiat. All are suitably modified and tuned to the brake and suspension package.

SUSPENSION AND BRAKING

Tuning of the chassis is a very precise operation, and we at Autoclassics have spent a great deal of time, energy and capital over many years developing the best system available for the Morris which, unlike other bolt-on adaptations, is a fully-integrated system which tunes the whole chassis and not just a part. The components of the system have been destruct-tested in controlled conditions, and under stress in motor sport conditions. Their designs have been carefully calculated to give the optimum performance under all conditions, and their safety-critical point is well above any chassis development requirements. The braking system is well balanced, giving the right amount of progressive power under full braking which not only increases the safety but makes the vehicle a joy to drive.

The Series IV braking and suspension system has a pedigree stretching back to an off-road rally system developed in the early 80's. This was productionised by us and sold through the Bath Morris Minor Business under the guise Series 3.The later development has given us the required performance, braking and suspension layout required for such an undertaking as the Cabriolet chassis. Future developments will be even more exciting with our projected Series V system which should be on stream in 1994 and shown in sporting events around the country.

For very special adaptations and performance packages we can supply extra tuning to the suspension with adjustable dampers, Panhard rods and four-link systems.

Auxiliary Equipment Fitted

Together with a custom-made alternator loom, we fit quartz halogen headlights. Driving lights are inset into the grille for extra safety at night. Two-speed wipers with delay and stalk control are standard, as are electronic ignition, washers and additional lighting.

Interior Trim and Fittings

A hand-tooled interior, coupled with realistic modern seats incorporating lumbar support, rake, height and position adjustments, are standard fitting. The rear seats are finished in matching trim which incorporates fire retardant materials. They are available in a choice of specifications ranging from vinyl, cloth, and leather hide. All door trims and carpets are also fitted to match in all cases.

Inertia front and rear seat belts are standard fittings.

SPECIAL FITTINGS

A new larger fuel tank has been fitted inside the boot over the rear axle, and is shielded by a fire retardant bulkhead. This development allows what was the fuel tank to become a hatched stowage for tools, etc. The fuel filler pipe has been moved higher up in the rear wing and is recessed into a hatched nacelle.

A modern solid state fuel pump is also fitted into the boot­space which has itself been enlarged overall by removal of the high floor frame.

The boot has internal hinges, and gas support struts, and is unlocked from an internal cable unit operated from the driver's seat.

Special recessed rear light clusters are fitted, which complement the overall uncluttered lines of the boot area.