The marriage of Morgan's very traditional sports car with Rover's rumbling V8 created something remarkable. The Plus 8 was unlike anything else on the market, a fast but very engaging sports car with traditional styling. All of which probably explains why it remained in production, virtually unchanged, for 34 years.
From August 1989, the Plus 8 received the more powerful version of the Rover engine, a 3.9-litre, 190bhp, fuel-injected V8. This was one of only 2,255 built between then and December 2000. It is an older car with exceptionally low mileage.
The fact that it was used very sparingly by its long-time owner means that the complete restoration carried out in 2008 has been very well preserved. With €14,000 worth of work since 2008, this is an excellent opportunity to acquire an excellent, well-maintained example of a glorious British sports car.
History and Documents
First registered on 20 September 1991
Records show that this car was built in the factory in the same month as registration
Chassis records show this to be car #352 of the 2,255 Plus 8 3.9-litre "Hot Wire" models built
Full history file showing extensive ongoing maintenance
Acquired by the vendor on 4 July 2007 as part of a small collection
Professionally restored in 2008, including a full red paint job
FFVE certificate dated 25 April 2022
History and 6-digit odometer indicate that the 34,602 miles (55,600 km) displayed are genuine
Independent inspection dated 31 January 2023, with very good remarks for the car
Technical Inspection valid until 26 April 2024
14,000 euros of recent refurbishment detailed in photographs and summarised below
Maintenance work carried out by the vendor totalling 14,000 euros:
Serviced at 33,600 miles (54,000 km)
Battery (2022)
Brake master cylinder and caliper, and cylinder (2019 at 33,678 miles-54,000 km)
New wiring harness (2017)
New clutch master cylinder and receiver (2014 at 32,053 miles-51,500 km)
Repairs to front axle, guides and hub bushes (2008 to 26,592 miles-48,000 km)
Front shock absorbers (2008 at 26,592 miles)
Repairs to fuel gauge
Paintwork redone in 2008
Condition
Bright red paintwork applied in 2008 to a high standard of workmanship
Bodywork in excellent condition reflecting restoration and limited use
Chrome wire wheels fitted with quality Pirelli tyres
Beige roof and matching tonneau with removable side screens
Folding windscreen
Beige leather interior in good condition with removable headrests
Wooden steering wheel with machined aluminium centre
Original beige leather factory steering wheel also supplied
Chrome rear luggage rack with leather strap
Pioneer radio discreetly installed under the dashboard with speakers on the rear panel
Underbody in very good condition with no problems to report
Wood veneer dashboard in good condition with no visible damage
There's no mistaking Morgan's classic profile, especially with this sports car's classic red paintwork. This is an evocative and well-detailed shape with hand-crafted panels, wood framing and neat chrome detailing.
The car was fully restored in 2008 and has been used sparingly since. The result is a vehicle in very good condition from the body and underneath, with no visible corrosion. The car sits on quality chrome wheels with Pirelli tyres, and a practical luggage rack is fitted to the rear.
Inside, the sense of preservation over time continues with an elegant beige leather interior and an attractive veneered dashboard. A delightfully original feature with the addition of a bespoke wooden steering wheel - the factory leather one is also supplied - and a modern Pioneer radio. The beige roof and side screens supplied with the car are also well maintained.
The feeling of a well-maintained car in good condition is reinforced by the independent inspection shown in the photographs.
The Mechanics
3.9-litre, fuel-injected, 190 bhp Rover V8 engine
5-speed manual gearbox
Ongoing maintenance
Recently serviced with low mileage since then
Brakes, wiring and suspension serviced with low mileage since then
The Plus 8's appearance may have remained the same over its 34-year history, but under the bonnet there have been regular changes. The first major change came in August 1989, when the car received the revised 3.9-litre Rover V8 engine delivering 190bhp. Only 2,255 of these cars would be built over the next 12 years, including this one, number 352. The engine was mated to a 5-speed gearbox.
One of the joys of these cars was the prospect of being able to afford to travel in a classic car. It's something the buyer will be able to fully appreciate, as this low-mileage car has clearly been maintained by its long-time owner. The €14,000 worth of work is documented above and has covered servicing, brakes, wiring and suspension. We are told that the car runs very well, which is verified by the recent highly complimentary independent inspection, and accompanied by a current MOT.
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to Car & Classic's terms and conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights arising from European consumer protection legislation do not apply. Car & Classic's returns policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your bid is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is "sold as seen", on an "as is where is" basis and without warranty. A full vehicle inspection prior to purchase is strongly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for illustrative purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final Auction or Bid price, as specified in the advert.
✓ Buyers are responsible for the collection or delivery of the vehicle. Importing vehicles may incur additional customs duties and import taxes. On request, Car & Classic can refer you to a third-party transport company. For more details, please email auctions@carandclassic.com. Prices start at €150 + VAT within the same country or €400 + VAT for cross-border journeys.
