The Morris Marina hit British roads during the 1970's. A product of British Leyland, the Marina was extremely popular and was the second most popular car in 1973. As a result of its popularity the car was exported worldwide.

Throughout its life the Morris Marina delivered a number of different models, with a 4 door saloon, estate, coupe and van version launched. The 4 door saloon car was the family car, something British Leyland was proud to promote in giving the family essential space when out and about.

In 1973 British Leyland launched something a little sportier in the 2 door coupe model, in order to appeal to a wider market. The coupe came in a range of engine sizes including the 1.3 litre, which was distinguishable by the silver front grill. The car itself had the same front end as the saloon but the rear curved beautifully down to the bumper to make it slightly more unique and aerodynamic.

Where space was a problem, the Marina family added an estate version in 1976. The aesthetics of the design were modified slightly by offering a wood panelled option, popular in many American cars of that period.

Whilst never a big seller, the company introduced a coupe utility vehicle in 1975, or a pickup truck as it is also known. With many other pickup trucks on the market and their popularity rising, British Leyland set out to compete.

The final version to hit the market and perhaps the most unique, was that of the motor caravan conversion in 1977. This model saw a modified estate Marina fitted with a roof which extended and lifted to accommodate a sleeping area. The objective was to produce a car for Marina lovers that allowed them to take it everywhere.

The Morris Marina saw a number of engines during its life. The original car saw the introduction of a 60 bhp 1275cc straight 4 engine which ran from 1971 to 1980. A 1798cc straight 4 was also made available in 1971 which lasted until 1978. The 1798cc engine was also adapted to feature a twin carburettor for the B series models. In 1977 the first diesel engine was released, with a 1489cc straight 4. The final engine to be released for the O series was a straight 4 1695cc which ran from 1978 until the end of production in 1980.

The Morris Marina has attracted media attention in recent years, most notably from Top Gear, with their persistence in using the car during races and stunts. The television programme was far from complimentary to the car, having been named as the 4th worst car in the Top Gear book. Various stunts and races ended with a piano being dropped on the roof, much to the annoyance of Marina owners clubs throughout the UK.