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Rating

Verdict Comes from the Dark Ages

The Morgan Plus 8 is an extraordinary experience. With most cars we concern ourselves with the all-important ability to sprint from 0 to 60. But this one did something far more impressive: it took me backwards 70 years in 2.5sec.

Drum brakes, a frame made from ash, cart springs, unassisted steering – this is the stuff of the industrial revolution and, as a result, you can feel the whole car flexing in the middle as you bumble along. And you will be bumbling. I’d always thought that the Morgan Plus 8 was a fast car. It isn’t. In the time it took to overtake a lorry, I had time to say 117 Hail Marys.

It didn’t stop, turn, grip or handle in any way that could be called vaguely contemporary, so I decided this car is not for me.

Since then, however, I’ve made a couple of calls to a couple of colleagues. Both of them said they absolutely loved the Plus 8, not despite the shortcomings but because of them.

I think I know what they mean. If you’re the sort who prefers an old black-and-white war film to The Terminator, and Old Speckled Hen to a bottle of Beck’s, then the Morgan will be right up your street.

I suppose I’m glad it’s out there. But I’m also glad we’ve moved on.

Price when tested (May 2003) £40,000

Model discontinued

Engine 3922cc, eight cylinders

Power 200bhp @ 4800rpm

Torque 225 lb ft @ 3500rpm

Transmission Five-speed manual

Fuel/CO2 23.2mpg (combined) / 289g/km

0-62mph 5.3sec

Top speed 130mph