Morgans are considered to be the most British of British sports cars. If you today visited the Morgan Motor Company factory in Malvern, Worcestershire, you would find cars being built by hand in the much the same way they were 100 years ago.
Morgan has been the keeper of the flame for British roadsters, long after MG, Triumph and Jaguar moved on to more modern expressions of sport motoring. Even the legendary Morgan 3 Wheeler is back after more than a half-century hiatus.
The Pick of the Day is a classic 1967 Morgan 4/4 Competition that appears to be in absolutely splendid condition, benefiting from low miles, restoration and mechanical upkeep.
This beautiful example in deep red with a tan interior has a known history of ownership, according to the dealer advertising the roadster on ClassicCars.com. From its bonnet strap to its wire-spoke wheels and low, cutaway doors, the Morgan exemplifies the tradition of British style.
The “Competition” designation can be slightly misleading, the dealer notes.
“While not specifically meant for racing, it was certainly more race friendly with the addition of top louvers to the bonnet to aid in cooling, a tachometer in the dash, and most importantly, a more powerful engine thanks to a Weber carburetor replacing the stock Solex unit,” the dealer explains. “It is believed that roughly 270 Competition models were produced during the Series V run which lasted until 1968 before the 1600 Series of cars was introduced.”
The Morgan is a three-owner car with just 50,867 miles on the odometer, and that figure is believed to be correct. The current owner purchased the car in 1995.
“In 1996 the car was treated to a ground-up restoration performed by Madden and Ryan in Radnor, Pennsylvania,” the seller says in the ad. “The restoration included the re-skinning of sheet metal, new wood treated with Cuprinol at the sills and door frame, a full re-paint, new interior, new front suspension, steering box, exhaust system, and replacing hoses, amongst many other things.”
In 2002, the engine received new valves, pistons and a stronger camshaft, with 300 miles added since, the ad says. Documentation of the car’s restoration and repairs is available.
“As it sits today, this Morgan 4/4 Competition remains in excellent condition both cosmetically and mechanically and would make the perfect car to drive and enjoy,” the seller concludes.
These classic Morgans are dedicated driver’s cars, with few creature comforts and a ride that can be bone jarring, and acceleration that is strong but leisurely. Their desirability is rooted in their rudimentary form, however, for those who want to enjoy – and endure – the real British roadster experience.
This beauty is priced at $48,000.
To view this listing on ClassicCars.com, see Pick of the Day.
In the late fifties I made a bet with my sweetheart that I’d own a Morgan before she did. Then I graduated high school, and she ditched me. End of story.