Description
The Morgan Plus 8 was born in 1968, initially almost like an “experiment”: Morgan decided to install the all-new Rover 3. 5-litre V8, aluminium, under the long bonnet of its Plus 4. The result is dazzling: a lightweight car of around 900 kg and about 160 horsepower. The car retains the Plus 4’s narrow chassis and its 1910-era sliding-pillars front suspension. It is rustic, but very fast, with lively handling.
In 1969, the car is still almost identical to that of 1968. Adjustments remain minor: a few detail improvements to cooling and brakes, but no major changes. It remains a super‑charged Plus 4, with pre‑war styling but the performance of a contemporary sports car.
In 1970, Morgan begins to make the whole package a little more reliable. The dashboard is redesigned, with new switches and instruments appearing. The Moss four‑speed gearbox remains unchanged, but the mechanical mounting gains in robustness. The first very light chassis modifications appear to accommodate the V8’s torque.
In 1971, a few equipment changes emerge: seats slightly redesigned, heating improved and the hood seal better, but still no major structural evolution. The Plus 8 retains its narrow track and its slim wire wheels.
Then comes 1972, which marks the full maturity of this first narrow generation. The Rover V8 3. 5‑litre engine with SU carburettors develops about 155 bhp, and the car keeps a weight below 900 kg. The Moss four‑speed gearbox remains in use. This 1972 version is often regarded as the peak of the “original” Plus 8: quick, raw, extremely light, with the artisan charm of the early series and an intact style inherited from the Plus 4.
In 1973, the Plus 8 continues almost unchanged, but receives a few discreet improvements to brakes and running gear. The aesthetics remain identical, always with the fine bodywork and closely tucked bulging arches around the wheels.
In 1974 and 1975, Morgan begins to prepare for a widening of the chassis, as modern wider tyres require more space and stability. A few reinforcements are added and some models already receive slightly wider wheels, but the overall silhouette remains the same.
This example was delivered new in Germany on 14 February 1973 and has since covered a little over 81, 000 km. It is therefore a rare left‑hand‑drive version with metric instrumentation. It is in very good condition and has benefited from an engine tune bringing its power to around 170 bhp. It is accompanied by a soft top, side windows and a tonneau cover.
The car runs very well, the engine is torquey and powerful, and the running gear is in very good condition.
