1959 Morgan Plus Four Roadster

Henry Morgan was the son and grandson of clergymen, but he drove off in another direction, opening a garage and building a three-wheeled car that changed little for six decades, though in the 1930s he also began producing four-wheelers. Morgan remains still building cars, mostly by hand, in the English countryside.

Lew Spencer was a race car driver who drove for Rene Pellandini's Worldwide Imports in Los Angeles. By the mid-1950s, Spencer was primarily racing with Morgan Plus 4s. In 1958, he had several 2nd place finishes. The following year, he scored his first major win at Laguna Seca.

Over the years, Spencer personally customized five specific Morgans, naming each BabyDoll (and numbering them I - V). These cars help Spencer secure three SCCA Pacific Coast championships.

This particular example is number III. The current caretaker describes the car as one of just 14 Plus 4 examples prepared by the factory with lightweight aluminum coachwork, and one of the five prepared by Spencer.

This car was sold new in late 1959, to Dick Sisich. In the early 1960s, it raced at various events and hill climbs. The car remained in Mr. Sisich's care until 2011.

The new owner treated the car to a thorough serving at Morgan West, which included the installation of new motor and transmission mounts, and refinishing of the high-performance Derrington headers and manifolds.

This car has earned Best in Class wins at three concours events.

This car is powered by a 1991cc overhead valve 4-cylinder engine fitted with twin SU carburetors. It produces 128 horsepower which is sent to the rear wheels via a 4-speed manual gearbox. In the front are hydraulic disc brakes with drums at the rear.