Marque: Morgan - Company History & Models - Cars By Brand
Morgan
Morgan Company Profile
We have a particular soft spot for the Morgan marque - and let’s face it, who doesn’t? H.F.S. Morgan pioneered a movement known as “New Motoring”, aimed at those who were looking for something better than a motorbike but cheaper than a full-size car. The result was a sort of halfway house known as a “cyclecar”. H.F.S. Morgan had trained…
Morgan Aero Eight
PRICE: £38,000-£45,000
Fast Facts
- Produced:
2000 - Bodywork:
Two-door open sports - Engine:
Twin overhead camshaft V8 4398cc 281bhp or 320bhp - 0-60 mph:
4.8 sec - Top Speed:
160 mph - MPG:
20-30+
PAST: Arguably the biggest change to Morgan’s core design since the Plus Eight, Aero Eight used modern BMW 32v V8 power – and a somewhat controversial look. Six-speed Getrag’box with a limited slip diff, plus rack and pinion steering, a variety of lightweight materials but ash framing still used! AeroMax coupe surfaces in 2005.
PRESENT: If you look at the Aero as a new take on the Plus Eight you won’t go wrong. Apart from even more pace, there’s more refinement and user- friendliness (especially handling and ride) but the V6 Jaguar S-Type-powered Plus Eight replacement is a wiser bet for traditionalists.
FUTURE: Prices are well above that of the older models although are easing slightly; only 11 made so exclusivity is assured.
Morgan Plus Eight
Fast Facts
- Produced:
1968-2004 - Bodywork:
Two-door open sports - Engine:
Overhead valve Rover V8 3528cc (1988 on 3946cc) 150-200+ bhp (depending on engine specification);Plus Eight Turbo 225bhp - 0-60 mph:
Plus Eight 6.8 sec Plus Eight Turbo 6 sec - Top Speed:
Plus Eight 125 mph Plus Eight Turbo 130 mph - MPG:
20-30+
PAST: Introduced around the same time Rover launched its P6 3500 saloon, Morgan also put this V8 unit to splendid use. Initially just 150bhp but power grew over the decades, starting in 1976, now mated to a five-speed ‘box. In 1988 the Plus Eight was upgraded by fitting the later 3.9-litre fuel-injected unit as found in Range Rovers, and the capacity was increased again in 1997, to a fuller fat 4.6-litres, and a Turbo later figured. Replaced by V6 Jag-powered model in 2004.
PRESENT: Don’t let those vintage looks fool you – the Plus Eight is a serious sports car with shattering pace. That old trad wooden-framed chassis is certainly taxed to its limits and ride has never been a strong point. Only a two-seater and civility no better than a 4/4.
FUTURE: Will always be a popular pick and there’s plenty of them around (so be picky). Originality counts on early models but top cars sell for big money now.
