For Sale at Auction: 1952 Morgan Plus 4 in Auburn, Indiana

Offering a performance increase over the long-running 4/4 while retaining the company's traditional hand-built construction, the Morgan Plus 4 automobile was introduced in 1950. By 1952, the Plus 4 had firmly established itself as Morgan's sporting flagship, blending prewar craftsmanship with postwar mechanical sophistication. Its ash-framed body, aluminum panels, and lightweight ladder chassis embodied Morgan's philosophy of simplicity and driver engagement, while the adoption of the Standard Vanguard four-cylinder engine provided notably stronger torque and cruising ability than earlier Morgan offerings. The 1952 model year became associated with the desirable "flat radiator" configuration, a transitional and relatively short-lived design. Unlike the later, more upright cowled radiator shell that became a Plus 4 hallmark, the flat radiator sat lower and more flush with the bonnet line, giving the car a cleaner, more understated profile reminiscent of late prewar Morgans. This earlier nose treatment also contributed to improved airflow and a subtly sleeker aesthetic, highly prized by traditionalists today. Capable in competition and equally adept on touring roads, the Plus 4 quickly earned a reputation for durability and versatility, competing successfully in rallies, hill climbs, and long-distance events. The 1952 Morgan Plus 4 stands as an important evolutionary chapter, bridging classic Morgan design with the higher performance demands of the postwar sports car era. Acquired by The Oscar Roberts Estate Collection in December 1993 from MorganFab, this 1952 Morgan Plus 4 "flat radiator" represents a thoughtfully restored example of one of Britain's most enduring sporting designs. Undergoing a multiyear comprehensive restoration during the early 2000s, the car was rebuilt around a newly fabricated chassis supplied by MorganFab, at which time it was converted from its original right-hand-drive configuration to its current left-hand-drive layout. Power is provided by the robust standard Vanguard four-cylinder engine, the same power plant that would later form the basis for the highly successful Triumph TR2, offering period-correct performance and character. The ash wood frame was restored and selectively replaced as needed, while the doors were refabricated and sheet metal renewed. Bodywork and paint were completed by David Barbery, complemented by fresh leather upholstery by Danny Reese. Additional details that add to its sporty flat-radiator appeal include a leather bonnet strap with sheep fleece, and Lucas headlamps. Black Wilton wool carpeting was installed in 2009 by Heritage Upholstery and Trim and a convertible top by Interiors by Thomas was also installed at this same time. Mechanical and cosmetic refinements continued with restored instruments, that Oscar sourced himself making a direct trip to England, replated brightwork, a rebuilt radiator by Culpepper Radiator, and the use of an Evan's waterless coolant. Recognized for its quality after its multiyear restoration, this Plus 4 earned First Place and the Berry College President's Choice Award at the 2009 Atlanta British Car Fayre and was invited and displayed at the Cincinnati Concours d'Elegance. Accompanying this Morgan is a large file of invoices and records during Oscar Roberts' long-term 32 years of ownership. One of the longest standing automobiles within the collection, this thoughtfully restored 1952 Morgan Plus 4 is a quintessential British automobile and one that would make a fabulous addition to one's weekend drives and Cars & Coffee events. * Multiyear ground-up restoration
* New frame made by MorganFab
* Desirable "flat radiator" example
* Acquired by the Collection 32 years ago

Offering a performance increase over the long-running 4/4 while retaining the company's traditional hand-built construction, the Morgan Plus 4 automobile was introduced in 1950. By 1952, the Plus 4 had firmly established itself as Morgan's sporting flagship, blending prewar craftsmanship with postwar mechanical sophistication. Its ash-framed body, aluminum panels, and lightweight ladder chassis embodied Morgan's philosophy of simplicity and driver engagement, while the adoption of the Standard Vanguard four-cylinder engine provided notably stronger torque and cruising ability than earlier Morgan offerings.

The 1952 model year became associated with the desirable "flat radiator" configuration, a transitional and relatively short-lived design. Unlike the later, more upright cowled radiator shell that became a Plus 4 hallmark, the flat radiator sat lower and more flush with the bonnet line, giving the car a cleaner, more understated profile reminiscent of late prewar Morgans. This earlier nose treatment also contributed to improved airflow and a subtly sleeker aesthetic, highly prized by traditionalists today. Capable in competition and equally adept on touring roads, the Plus 4 quickly earned a reputation for durability and versatility, competing successfully in rallies, hill climbs, and long-distance events. The 1952 Morgan Plus 4 stands as an important evolutionary chapter, bridging classic Morgan design with the higher performance demands of the postwar sports car era.

Acquired by The Oscar Roberts Estate Collection in December 1993 from MorganFab, this 1952 Morgan Plus 4 "flat radiator" represents a thoughtfully restored example of one of Britain's most enduring sporting designs. Undergoing a multiyear comprehensive restoration during the early 2000s, the car was rebuilt around a newly fabricated chassis supplied by MorganFab, at which time it was converted from its original right-hand-drive configuration to its current left-hand-drive layout.

Power is provided by the robust standard Vanguard four-cylinder engine, the same power plant that would later form the basis for the highly successful Triumph TR2, offering period-correct performance and character. The ash wood frame was restored and selectively replaced as needed, while the doors were refabricated and sheet metal renewed. Bodywork and paint were completed by David Barbery, complemented by fresh leather upholstery by Danny Reese. Additional details that add to its sporty flat-radiator appeal include a leather bonnet strap with sheep fleece, and Lucas headlamps. Black Wilton wool carpeting was installed in 2009 by Heritage Upholstery and Trim and a convertible top by Interiors by Thomas was also installed at this same time.

Mechanical and cosmetic refinements continued with restored instruments, that Oscar sourced himself making a direct trip to England, replated brightwork, a rebuilt radiator by Culpepper Radiator, and the use of an Evan's waterless coolant. Recognized for its quality after its multiyear restoration, this Plus 4 earned First Place and the Berry College President's Choice Award at the 2009 Atlanta British Car Fayre and was invited and displayed at the Cincinnati Concours d'Elegance.

Accompanying this Morgan is a large file of invoices and records during Oscar Roberts' long-term 32 years of ownership. One of the longest standing automobiles within the collection, this thoughtfully restored 1952 Morgan Plus 4 is a quintessential British automobile and one that would make a fabulous addition to one's weekend drives and Cars & Coffee events.