Posts tagged Morgan Motor Company
2012 Morgan Plus 8
Dec 2nd
What do you say when Charles Morgan, of the Morgan Motor Company, asks you if you’d like to drive the companies latest V8 powered sports car? Well, anything other than “yes please!” would be extremely rude.
Here, in brief, are my initial impressions of the 2012 Morgan +8; The first things that impresses you about the reborn Plus 8 are both the ride quality and steering feel. After spending many hours behind the wheel of a standard Aero 8, an Aeromax and a variety of Classic Morgans, the new +8 went straight to the top of the pile in terms of steering precision. The poise is aided by the chassis being closest to the Series 1 Aero and thus with the minimal overhang of the Plus 8 bodywork, the car feels both nimble and lithe (this is also helped by the fact the 2012 Plus 8 will have an excellent power to weigh ratio).
This power to weight ratio also meant the Plus 8 felt extremely quick – acceleration was always rapid (no need for the right gear or the right RPM, the torque seemed to mean the power was always on tap) and it was only the rules of the road that restricted your ability to proceed at a physics bending pace; all the above was only exacerbated by the superb handling adding huge confidence, even on a slightly damp British winter road. A quick nod should also be made to the exhaust note, which in typical V8 fashion is there to egg you on – in the new Plus 8, you cannot help but fall in love with the idea of pressing down on the accelerator, simply to hear the tune it plays.
Aesthetically, the 2012 Morgan Plus 8 is a very purposeful looking Classic. The rear and the front perspective afford it a wonderfully wide stance; in the Black bodywork of the development car, the Plus 8 possesses an attractively menacing quality, more subtle than many performance cars but with plenty of presence. The profile is more difficult to judge because I simply don’t like the wheels on the development vehicle and therefore, tried to imagine it with another set in situ. Were a set of Classic Morgan wheels fitted, I think you’d be hard pressed to tell it apart from the rest of the range from afar (which given the heritage of the profile, is certainly not a bad thing!). I will watch, with interest, which wheels MMC choose to fit to the production cars because I believe getting them correct is essential to completing the package. I’m sure the company will devise a suitable solution; their Sport line for the Classic range has proven they understand simple beauty and the elegance of clean lines.
Whilst not fair to judge a development vehicle on fit and finish, the interior was a nice place to sit, the cut down doors adding to the elbow room. The dash was still a work in progress but was coming together nicely: blending Classic and modern with panache. The hood seemed substantial and consideration has been given to the side screens and the fit of them when the Plus 8 is at speed. As it stands, the development car was rattle free and felt very solid and well put together. I look forward to sitting the finished product but all signs point to another Morgan cabin that is a pleasure to spend time in.
I believe that gives a fair reflection of my opinion on the new Morgan Plus 8. It is quite easy to fall under the spell of this wonderful vehicle and even in development form, it is an extremely attractive package. Once the development process is over and the car has reached the public, I believe the Plus 8 will sell itself; the words of others, such as myself, will become superfluous to the individuals experience behind the wheel. This is a Morgan which needs to be driven to truly appreciate the depth of its potential and the magic it is capable of.
Interview with Tim Whitworth, Morgan Motor Company Finance Director
Mar 11th
Following in the footsteps, or should that read pod-steps?, of the audio interviews with Steve Morris, Operations Director of Morgan Motor Company, and Matt Humphries, Head of Design, Morgan Car News, in collaboration with Maximise Potential and Talk Morgan, are pleased to announce the release of Tim Whitworth’s interview.
Kevin Matthews of Maximise Potential sums of this exciting conversation perfectly: -
“Tim Whitworth, Finance Director of Morgan, has the unenviable task of making the numbers balance within this last remaining marquee of British Motoring history.
Yet Tim views this responsibility as one of the best challenges he could ever be faced with, due to his clear passion and genuine attachment to the brand.
He considers himself to be an unconventional Finance Director, who takes as much interest in the human aspects of the company as the numbers, citing Morgan’s collaborative working culture as key to so much of the company’s success.
This is a great opportunity to go behind the scenes of Morgan and also the man responsible for it’s finances, in this very informative and candid interview.”
You can listen to Tim’s interview by following this link to Maximise Potential. We hope you enjoy listening to it.
Morgan readies Three Wheeler for Geneva Motorshow
Feb 24th
After months of teaser information and just short of a 60-year hiatus, the début of the 2011 Morgan 3 Wheeler at the Geneva auto show is almost upon us. On March 1st, Morgan Motor Company will reveal the revised 3 Wheeler to press and invited guests in the PalExpo. The following information details what they, and the viewing public in the days to follow, have to look forward to: -
DESIGN
When did you last regard a journey by motor car as an adventure? The Morgan 3 Wheeler is launched to bring the fun and passion back to personal transport. Lift the safety catch from the “bomb release” starter, hear the massive twin cylinders detonate and choose your favourite destination.
The iconic design of the Morgan Threewheeler has been updated with 21st Century technology. The powertrain is a V Twin fuel injected engine mated to a Mazda 5 speed (and reverse) gearbox. This provides smooth “get in and drive” convenience with the thrill of extreme performance. The car is a fusion of old and new.
Safety is paramount with a reinforced tubular chassis and twin rollbars for driver and passenger. A sturdy V belt provides traction to the reinforced rear tyre. Some things have not changed. The Morgan Threewheeler still holds long distance speed records for one litre cars set in the 1930’s so why change the shape? The pronounced bullet shape and the exposed chassis and aluminium tub are accompanied by the aeroplane profile of the car’s sides. The shape is of a gentle yet powerful missile at the front leading to a beetle back tail at the rear. From the design viewpoint, the focus was set on making the car as close to an aeroplane as possible, while retaining handy extra space for driver, passenger and a holdall in the rear. But above all the Morgan 3 Wheeler is designed for one purpose alone, to make driving fun. A leather padded cockpit complete with aircraft instrumentation adds to the sense of flying on the road. The car is easy to control with compact dimensions offering a perfect view ahead and to the rear. The car seems to respond as much to thought as physical input.
Dynamism is further enhanced by what the Morgan design team calls a sporty “race on Sunday” design philosophy. The car’s lines do not end abruptly but instead flow organically and echo the smooth shapes of a racetrack. The smooth profile makes the car look sleeker and lower. The sculpted bonnet and boot enhance the aerodynamic feel and the short overhangs front and rear emphasize the sports car sense of purpose.
CHASSIS AND DRIVING DYNAMICS
Morgan chassis experts have worked on the driving experience of the new Morgan 3 Wheeler with the same passion given to the development of any new Morgan. The result is a driver’s car with properties that do the sporting appearance full justice. The weight of the engine is counterbalanced by the mass of the passengers and the car has a planted feel with a very low centre of gravity to ensure it remains glued to the road. During the development process, the chassis team worked on the new 3 Wheeler in parallel with the forthcoming Morgan EvaGT. The result is a solution that features changes and refinements to virtually every single detail that affects a car’s cornering capabilities.
ENGINES
During its first year of production, the new Morgan 3 Wheeler will be available with a V twin from specialist engine builder S & S. The car is approved by US and European road transport authorities for safety and emissions. With an economical 115 horsepower the motor provides maximum power at minimum revs. Big torque spells effortless hillclimbing ability. The current focus of the Morgan Motor Company to cut CO2 emissions and low fuel consumption is very much part of the rationale behind the launch of this car. The time is right for Morgan to take a new look at the combination of acceleration, on road performance and economy. The time is right for Morgan to relaunch the 3 Wheeler.
Price £25,000 before tax
Bespoke extras
Bespoke leather and paint are available at extra cost as on the classic Morgan. A Polished engine, stainless steel tailpipes, cowl, polished cowl,headlamps and roll hoops are also extra cost options for a more classic look.
Exciting graphic packs to compliment the Sport “race on Sunday” philosophy
High quality decals are available to give the owner the opportunity to boost the sporty attitude of the new Morgan 3 Wheeler. These include special designs including US military and British Air Force inspired logos, oval racing numbers and stripes, a fearsome shark nose, chequered winner’s bonnet, official national flags and the Morgan wings.
We will post more information on the 2011 Morgan 3 Wheeler as soon as we receive it; however, in the interim you can find more information on the Morgan Three Wheeler web site and photos and videos on Talk Morgan.
Interview with Steve Morris, Operations Director, Morgan Motor Company
Feb 21st
Following on from the excellent interview with Matt Humphries, Head of Design for Morgan Motor Company, Maximise Potential – with the assistance of Talk Morgan – have published the second interview in the MMC series.
The latest discussion is with Steve Morris, Operations Director, and covers a wide range of subjects, which includes: evolution of the Morgan Motor Company, efficiency within production and manufacture, supplier relationships, personal career progression and how government legislation is effecting the automotive industry within the United Kingdom.
Steve’s interview is number 2 in this 4 part series and will be followed with the penultimate interview with Tim Whitworth, Financial Director, and concludes with Charles Morgan, Managing Director. We will bring these to your attention as soon as they have been published. To listen to the interview with Steve Morris, follow this link.
Exclusive Interview with Matt Humphries of Morgan Motor Company
Jan 12th
Morgan Car News and Talk Morgan are proud to have helped facilitate a series of interviews with some of the key members of Morgan Motor Company.
Maximise Potential, a site which conducts inspirational interviews, have just released the first of these interviews – 1 of a 4 part series. Part one is with Matt Humphries, Head of Design for Morgan, and the conversation ranges from Matt’s step from Coventry University to working with MMC, the prototype Morgan Aeromax up to the most recent developments at Morgan Motor Company.
The interview is available on both the Maximise Potential site or via iTunes podcast section, using the search term Maximise Potential. People who listen to the interview via iTunes will have the opportunity to subscribe to the podcast and will automatically be made aware when the next three episodes are published. The next three segments are with Steve Morris (Operations Director), Tim Whitworth (Financial Director) and the Charles Morgan (Managing Director),
The Morgan Car News will also list these exciting, exclusive, future interviews as soon as they are published.
New Morgan 3-Wheeler for 2011
Oct 4th
Today, Jayne Jones of the Morgan Motor Company confirmed the launch of a new Morgan 3-Wheeler at next year’s Geneva Show. She went on to say that the maker of fine British sports cars, whose business was founded on the design and production of 3-wheeled vehicles, anticipates the price tag to be “under £30,000″. Enthusiast and potential customers do not have long to wait for more information as she added that details of the car’s design and power plant would be revealed in November 2010.
Morgan Motor Company Refresh Web Site
May 19th
Morgan Motor Company have refreshed their web site today. The revised home page has the latest images and information regarding all the current sports cars for sale. The revision allows for easier navigation to particular models as well as access to the specific brochures. In keeping with this change, both Sport Models, the 4/4 Sport and Roadster Sport have gained far more prominence on the site. Sadly, the iconic Aeromax has been withdrawn from the current line up, perhaps signalling the delivery of the final 11 of these modern British sports cars to the USA. The LIFECar, however, is still featured prominently and the renaming of the concept to LIFECar2 would seem to confirm MMC’s ongoing commitment to the project . The site can be found at www.morgan-motor.co.uk
Charles Morgan Awarded the President’s Trophy by The Guild of Motoring Writers
Apr 28th
Hot off the press, The Guild of Motoring Writers have awarded Charles Morgan their highest accolade; Guy Loveridge, Press Officer for The Guild, had this to say: -
“The Guild of Motoring Writers recognises a unique British achievement
Charles Morgan of the Morgan Motor Company has been awarded the President’s Trophy, The Guild of Motoring Writers’ highest accolade, in recognition of the specialist car company’s centenary.
The presentation was made at the Guild’s Annual General Meeting by its president, Nick Mason. Mr Morgan expressed his “delight and extreme gratitude” in accepting the award, and went on to thank the Guild for its members’ help and support during the 66-year association between the two organisations.
Introducing the award, Nick Mason said: Introducing the award, Nick Mason said: “I’m delighted to present Charles with this Trophy in acknowledgement of The Morgan Motor Company’s commitment to British automotive engineering”. In accepting, Charles Morgan replied: “It is an honour to accept this on behalf of all those who have and who continue to make Morgan a success.”. In accepting, Charles Morgan replied: “It is an honour to accept this on behalf of all those who have and who continue to make Morgan a success.”
He added that Morgan has plans for an electric car and a small family vehicle, plus a ‘weekend’ car, hinting it might be a three-wheeler.
The presentation was a highlight of the Guild’s AGM, which was generously hosted by Rolls-Royce at its Goodwood headquarters. After the meeting, members were given a VIP tour of the production facility, and had the opportunity to drive various Rolls-Royce models.”
A warm congratulations to Mr. Morgan from all at Talk Morgan and the Morgan Car News on being awarded this prestigious trophy.
Morgan Sports Car News from Malvern England
Apr 12th
Morgan Motor Company Centenary Fireworks
2009, the Centenary year of the Morgan Motor Company was always going to be a busy one, and so it proved. Events throughout the year, included a visit to the factory by the Princess Royal, a mass Centenary factory drive away of new cars, the opening of the new Morgan Visitors Centre and Museum, plus featured Marque displays at Villa d’Este, Goodwood Festival of Speed and Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. As if that wasn’t enough, over 3200 Morgans gathered from 23 countries worldwide in August to celebrate the 100th Birthday at the Cheltenham Racecourse. Concerts, a Gala Dinner for 1000 guests and then a finale Proms in the Park concert with the English Symphony Orchestra and firework display wrapped up a weekend to remember.
2010 looks to be just as successful, with the factory starting production of the new Aero SuperSports, and introducing the new Euro V Roadster Sport. Production has increased to try and meet demand, with nearly 800 vehicles planned for this year – to be the largest ever number of Morgans produced in one year.
New Morgan V6 Roadster Sport Launched in 2010
Mar 23rd
New Morgan V6 Roadster Sport
Morgan Motor Company have launched the second model in the Morgan Sport Series line up with the Morgan V6 Roadster Sport.
The company have recognised that not all owners want to personalise their car at the production stage and therefore are offering a well specified car direct from factory. MMC have this to say: -
“Choosing the Morgan that’s right for you can be a daunting task, so we’ve make it easy. The Sport Series comes with a simple yet comprehensive and well thought out standard specification.
Few car manufacturers have actually increased production recently, however such has been the demand for the Morgan 4/4 Sport, that the Malvern based factory has had to add 50% to the annual production of this model.”
In order to capitalise on this appeal, the company unveiled its latest model, the V6 Roadster Sport, at the 2010 Geneva Motorshow. This carries the spirit of the entry level Morgan 4/4 Sport into the powerful 220Bhp V6 3.0 litre, with a few more luxuries on top.
Updates have included the latest Euro V 220 Bhp V6 3.0 engine, which gains 10% more power over the previous Roadster model with no trade off on CO2 emissions at 225 g/km. Changes to the front track give more sure footed handling, and minor revisions to the rear lighting and interior packaging complete the model year changes.
Both Sport models come with a choice of 8 exterior colours all designed to match the tan leather upholstery. On the Roadster, natural distressed tan leather, a black stoneguard and bonnet strap can be factory ordered if desired.
An extensive range of photographs of the Morgan Roadster Sport can be found at Talk Morgan, the web based enthusiasts forum for all cars produced by MMC.
Morgan Motor Company, Geneva 2008, Photos
May 1st
Geneva 2008
This post contains photographs from the Morgan Motor Company stand at the Geneva Auto Show 2008. Vehicles on show at the 78th International Auto Salon were: the Morgan Aeromax (which is part of a limited production run of only 100 cars), the hydrogen fueled Morgan LIFECar, the new for 2008 Morgan 4/4 Sport 1.6, the Morgan Aero 8 4.8 automatic, V6 Roadster and Plus 4 Seater from the Classic range.
Discussion and photos on the MMC stand at Geneva can be found at Talk Morgan.
Morgan Aeromax brochure and Sales Information
Apr 29th
The Morgan Motor Company has released the brochure for their 2008 limited edition Morgan Aeromax. Comprised of 12 pages (including the front and rear cover), the literature details technical specifications of the coupe, optional extras as well as providing colour swatches of the 11 ‘recommended’ exterior colours, 5 interior leathers and 3 wood trims.
New Morgan Aero 8 4.8 model
Apr 21st
The Morgan Aero 8 is the lightest V8 sports car in the world. 2008 sees the start of production of the new 4.8 litre V8 version. The latest BMW V8 engine takes Morgan performance to the next level.
The new engine adds 13% more power, raising output to 367 bhp, giving a power to weight ratio of over 315 bhp/tonne, enough to propel the car from 0 – 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds and on to a top speed of 170 mph. More >
Morgan LIFECar – Zero Emission Hydrogen
Mar 31st
As discussed on the Morgan discussion group Talk Morgan, the Morgan LIFECar takes a fresh look at transport, offering as revolutionary an approach to personal freedom as did the brilliant Morgan Threewheeler introduced by HFS Morgan nearly 100 years ago.
The LIFECar is powered by a fuel cell that is sized to meet the constant load requirement of cruising (about 20% of peakpower) and as a result significant weight and cost reductions have been made over other designs. By recapturing energy during braking, maximum performance is available to LIFECar for acceleration from this unique mix of technologies. More >
Morgan Aeromax Production Starts
Mar 27th
Morgan Aeromax Production Starts
Just 2 years after its debut at the 2006 Geneva Autoshow as a one off built to order for one of Morgan’s discerning customers, the AeroMax coupe has entered series production at the Morgan factory.
Such was the interest surrounding this unique design that it was decided, with the kind permission of its owner, to make a limited production run of 100 cars, all of which were sold within just a few weeks of its announcement.
Following a two year intense period of production development, and a number of minor improvements to the overall design, the first customer AeroMax is shortly to be delivered.
No expense has been spared in ensuring that the production quality mirrors expectations. Innovations include a world first, the use of high tech super formed aluminium panels for the entire body.
This process allows the most complex of shapes to be made in aluminium which are then fitted over a traditional ash frame. More >