2004 Morgan Plus 8 New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2004 Morgan Plus 8?
Originally introduced in 1968, and very much the same as it was then, the 2004 Morgan Plus 8 goes unchanged for its final year on the market.

Advantages of the 2004 Morgan Plus 8:

• Old school British charm
• Wide-open exposure on sunny summer days
• Electrically heated windshield

Objections to the 2004 Morgan Plus 8:

• Old school British engineering
• Side curtains are all that protect you from the elements
• Cramped cabin

Editor's Advice:
Introduced in 1968 and a direct descendant of the 1936 Morgan 4/4, the 2004 Morgan Plus 8 is a throwback to the days of the classic British roadster. Federal regulations governing safety and emissions have continually thwarted attempts to sell the Morgan Plus 8 in the U.S., and with the debut of the new 2004 Morgan Aero 8, this is the final year that Americans can purchase a brand new roadster that dates to the middle of the 20th Century. This tiny two-seater is powered by a 4.0-liter aluminum V8 engine sourced from Land Rover, making 188bhp at 4,750 rpm and 232 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,000 rpm. A five-speed manual transmission drives the rear wheels, and with a curb weight of just 2,250 pounds, the Morgan Plus 8 can accelerate to 60 mph in about six seconds on its way to a top speed of more than 125 mph. A steel chassis serves as the foundation for the Morgan Plus 8’s ash wood body frame, to which steel and aluminum body panels are attached. An archaic sliding pillar front independent and live axle leaf spring rear suspension can provide surprisingly entertaining handling thanks in part to gas-charged shocks, and the 2004 Morgan Plus 8 rides on standard 15-inch alloy wheels with 205/60 tires. Front disc, rear drum brakes and rack-and-pinion steering complete the hardware package. Standard equipment includes walnut dashboard trim, Connolly leather upholstery, an electrically heated windshield and dual front airbags. The Morgan Plus 8 is also equipped with side curtains rather than roll-up windows to keep out the elements. Options include several stereo selections, sport-bolstered seats, exterior door handles, and leather trim on the instrument panel. Also available are 16-inch wire wheels wearing 205/55 tires. Selling for more than $60,000 through Isis Motors in San Francisco, the 2004 Morgan Plus 8 is not a sports car for everyone. This is a raw, bare bones, classic motoring experience unlike any modern car. If that appeals to you, time is running out on your ability to get a brand new Morgan Plus 8.