UK vs UK — 1956 vs 1948
| Minor 1000 | Minor MM Tourer | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 48 hp | 27 hp |
| Torque | 60 lb-ft | 41 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,098 cc | 918 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 24.8 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 77 mph | 63 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 23.5 sec | — |
| Weight | 1,761 lbs | 1,750 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,184 mm | 2,184 mm |
| Length | 3,759 mm | 3,759 mm |
| Units Produced | 847,000 | 176,000 |
| Original MSRP | — | $1,195 |
| Value (Excellent) | $25,000 | $30,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 3/10 | 5/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1956 Morris Minor 1000 brings more power, higher top speed to the table, and the 1948 Morris Minor MM Tourer answers with greater rarity. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Morris Minor 1000. The 1956 and 1948 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 1956 Morris Minor 1000 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 48 hp compared to 27 hp, a 21-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Morris Minor 1000 uses a Inline-4 OHV 8V displacing 1,098 cc, while the Morris Minor relies on a Inline-4 SV with 918 cc. The 1956 Morris Minor 1000 claims a higher top speed at 77 mph compared to 63 mph. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 176,000 units built, the 1948 Morris Minor MM Tourer is considerably scarcer than the Morris Minor 1000's 847,000 examples. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.