Morgan Plus Four – a sense of motoring occasion – CSN News

HFS (Henry Frederick Stanley Morgan) founded the Morgan Motor Company back in 1909. I wonder if HFS ever thought that over 110 years after he started his company, it would still exist and outlive much larger car manufacturers. In fact, the Morgan family owned and controlled Morgan Motor Company until 2019. I’m certain he would like that to continue but realistically, the small company required outside investment to finance the next generation of cars.

The Plus Four is an iconic model of the Malvern-based company. To the uninitiated, it looks almost identical to when it was first launched in 1950. But underneath the aluminium body, ash frame and other exterior features are some very advanced mechanicals.

Morgan has used many engines throughout the years, but they are best known for their Ford engines and Rover engines. They have also used Fiat motors. In the Plus Four, it’s a BMW 2.0 litre 4-cylinder turbocharged engine that produces 253PS. It can sprint from 0 to 100 kph in just a few seconds. Priced from €83,044/£69,995 a slice of traditional British sporting craftsmanship is not cheap. But you are buying more than just transport.

Morgan is one of the few car brands that can evoke smiles and admiration from even those who are not into cars. It’s difficult to maintain a sense of nostalgia for a time when driving meant adventure and excitement, while also meeting modern safety and comfort standards.

Although the Plus Four has a lot of power and handling, its ride may not be for everyone.

The Plus Four looks great with the roof down on a sunny day. You can keep the side screens in place if you find that the low-cut door creates too much draught. It is a difficult task for modern machines to put the roof back on. The process isn’t as complicated as you think but takes some time.

Plus Fours are a car for holidays and high days, but you can use them on a regular basis. The car’s idiosyncrasies add to its charm and are not so extreme that you would be discouraged from using it.

I can think of lots a machinery costing more than the Morgan’s €83k/£70k price tag that doesn’t come within a continent’s reach of the enjoyment and sense of occasion the Morgan gives you every time you get behind the wheel. It’s a true delight!