A 1968 Morris 1800 that was campaigned by a crew of female journalists in the 1970 Daily Mirror World Cup Rally is set to go under the hammer at Anglia Car Auctions’ 22 August sale – and it could be yours for just £20,000.
The car, which was dubbed ‘The Beauty Box’ in period, was rallied by Jean Denton, Liz Crellin and Pat Wright, who took the Landcrab to a creditable 18th place. The team was sponsored by Motorwoman – a segment of Woman magazine – and was prepared by British Leyland’s Special Tuning division.
A number of performance upgrades were fitted to the Morris prior to the rally, including lightweight glassfibre doors, bonnet and boot lid. Steel versions were fitted during a full bare-metal restoration, though the original items will be included in the sale.
The vehicle is finished in its original white over blue livery, complete with period-correct decals identical to those fitted during the World Cup Rally. The original pink wing tops have also been added, having been omitted during the restoration.
“We’re thrilled to be auctioning this car,” said Lyn George of ACA. “Not only has it been sympathetically restored, but as a genuine works-prepared car, it represents a slice of motorsport history. The fact it’s been active since only adds to its unique pedigree.”
In addition to being campaigned regularly in classic rallies, the car was also featured as part of the Landcrab Register’s display at the 2013 Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show at the NEC.
