Morris

Introduced in 1971, the Morris Marina was British Leyland’s answer to the Ford Cortina and was intended to replace both the long-running Morris Minor and Morris Oxford. Developed under the ADO28 project, it deliberately adopted a conventional front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout at a time when many other British Leyland models featured more advanced front-wheel-drive engineering. Available as a saloon, coupé, estate, van and pickup, the Marina was designed to be simple, affordable and easy to maintain, particularly for fleet and export markets. Although often criticised for its uninspired styling, dated engineering and early handling problems, the Marina proved highly successful with British buyers and became one of the country's best-selling cars during the 1970s.

Launched in 1975, the Marina Mark II introduced a number of improvements aimed at addressing criticism of the original model. The facelift brought a revised grille, a redesigned dashboard, improved seats, better sound insulation and significant suspension modifications, including anti-roll bars that improved handling. While the car retained its familiar appearance and rear-wheel-drive layout, it felt more refined and comfortable. The Mark II helped keep the Marina competitive until the arrival of the lightly restyled Morris Ital in 1980.