History: The Morris 10/M was launched in 1938 as a completely new model, featuring unitary body construction — a significant departure from its predecessor, the Series III — although its external styling remained largely unchanged.

Under the hood, it introduced the new 1,140cc X-Series engine, which produced 37bhp (28kW) at 4,600rpm.

Like the earlier M-Series engine, it used an overhead valve (OHV) layout, but the X-Series was a fresh design developed in response to the M-Series' disappointing performance and reliability.

The M-Series had roots in older Morris side-valve engines, whereas the X-Series incorporated modern engineering influences from contemporary American cars.

These included a free-flow 8-port cylinder head, a pressurized pump-driven cooling system, a fully filtered lubrication system and an automatic tensioner for the camshaft chain.

Alongside the Vauxhall 10-4, the Series M was among the first mass-produced British vehicles to feature an OHV engine.

It earned pr...