2018 Morgan Roadster

6 Bids
1:00 PM, 06 Mar 2025Vehicle sold
Sold for

£36,856

(inc. Buyer’s Premium)
consigner image

Fraser's review

Fraser Jackson - Consignment Specialist Message Fraser

“ Last of the N/A V6 Morgans...? ”

Stunning in terms of aesthetics, performance, and handling; the Morgan Roadster is as close as you can get to a modern classic while preserving those all-important traditional characteristics.

Background

Introduced in 2004 to replace the fabulous - if venerable - Morgan Plus 8, the V6 Roadster was initially perceived by some as a retrograde step for the Malvern-based firm. However, it didn’t take long to prove the opposite. The new V6 not only lived up to its famous V8-engined predecessor, but it also managed to exceed it.

The Ford Cyclone/Duratec V6 produced more power (albeit with slightly less torque) than the outgoing Rover V8, but it was lighter and benefited from dual overhead cams per bank. With just 950kg to haul, performance was brisk - 0 to 60 mph was achieved in 5.5 seconds, with a top speed of 140 mph. The Morgan Roadster might have looked like a classic, but it certainly didn’t drive like one.

The chassis retains Morgan’s signature frame (now produced from steel) with aluminium body panels, contributing to its lightweight nature. The traditional sliding pillar front suspension and live rear axle provide a firm ride, reminiscent of classic sports cars. While this setup may lack the refinement of modern independent suspension systems, it enhances the car’s charm by offering a raw, mechanical feel. Ventilated disc brakes at the front and drums at the rear provide adequate stopping power, but the absence of driver aids like ABS and traction control means you’ll need to have your wits about you when pushing the car to its limits.

Inside, the cabin exudes classic British craftsmanship, featuring leather-trimmed bucket seats and a wooden dashboard fascia. The modern dials retain a period look, but as always, the main focus remains on driving purity rather than digital distractions.

Key Facts


  • Great Colours
  • 1 Owner From New
  • Fantastic History
  • Just 10k Miles

  • SA94437H2J0004057
  • 10,227 Miles
  • 3721cc
  • manual
  • Lotus Military Grey
  • Stone Leather
  • Right-hand drive
  • Petrol

Vehicle location
Bonhams|Cars Online HQ, United Kingdom

Background

Introduced in 2004 to replace the fabulous - if venerable - Morgan Plus 8, the V6 Roadster was initially perceived by some as a retrograde step for the Malvern-based firm. However, it didn’t take long to prove the opposite. The new V6 not only lived up to its famous V8-engined predecessor, but it also managed to exceed it.

The Ford Cyclone/Duratec V6 produced more power (albeit with slightly less torque) than the outgoing Rover V8, but it was lighter and benefited from dual overhead cams per bank. With just 950kg to haul, performance was brisk - 0 to 60 mph was achieved in 5.5 seconds, with a top speed of 140 mph. The Morgan Roadster might have looked like a classic, but it certainly didn’t drive like one.

The chassis retains Morgan’s signature frame (now produced from steel) with aluminium body panels, contributing to its lightweight nature. The traditional sliding pillar front suspension and live rear axle provide a firm ride, reminiscent of classic sports cars. While this setup may lack the refinement of modern independent suspension systems, it enhances the car’s charm by offering a raw, mechanical feel. Ventilated disc brakes at the front and drums at the rear provide adequate stopping power, but the absence of driver aids like ABS and traction control means you’ll need to have your wits about you when pushing the car to its limits.

Inside, the cabin exudes classic British craftsmanship, featuring leather-trimmed bucket seats and a wooden dashboard fascia. The modern dials retain a period look, but as always, the main focus remains on driving purity rather than digital distractions.

Video

Overview

Retaining the iconic Morgan styling that dates back to the 1930s, the Roadster has never strayed far from its roots - and rightly so. Stunning in terms of aesthetics, performance, and handling, the Morgan Roadster is as close as you can get to a modern classic while preserving those all-important traditional characteristics.

Replacing the Plus 8 in 2004, the Morgan Roadster featured Ford’s 3.7-litre Cyclone V6. Although slightly smaller than its predecessor and producing less power on paper, its lighter weight made it more economical and improved on-road performance.

This stunning, low-mileage example was purchased new by the vendor in 2018 and has been meticulously maintained, despite covering just 10,227 miles. It is also one of the last models to be produced with the magnificent naturally aspirated V6 before Morgan transitioned to turbochargers and electronic enhancements. This makes it one of the more desirable models for driving enthusiasts who prefer the raw, mechanical experience of a classic car.

Exterior

If there is one colour that complements the Morgan’s bodywork while giving it a slightly modern twist, then Lotus Military Grey has to be the perfect choice - don’t you agree?

The colour suits the car perfectly, and the condition is excellent, with just a few minor, unavoidable stone chips on the front wings. The car was specified with a chrome mesh grille, front and rear overriders, and clear indicator lenses all around, all of which are in excellent condition.

From the side profile, you can appreciate the classic lines of the original design. There are no dings or dents to mention, and the doors align well. However, there is a small issue with the passenger door - sometimes it won’t open, and sometimes it won’t close. This suggests that it may need some adjustment or lubrication to the mechanism, but a professional diagnosis would be required.

Also on the options list were a set of "Proud to be British" enamel Union Jack bonnet badges, classic round door mirrors, and interior-coloured PVC-coated wing beading, sandwiched neatly between the body and wings.

At the rear, the red and clear light lenses give a clean look against the Lotus Military Grey paintwork and are all free from damage. Another chosen option is the luggage rack and Morgan-branded suitcase. The luggage rack also cleverly doubles up as storage for the removable side screens, allowing for a true open-top driving experience.

The Mohair hood is in excellent condition and includes a cover and screen bag. The set of five 7x16 polished stainless steel wheels are in excellent condition and fitted with Avon ZV7 tyres, all of which have plenty of tread remaining.

Interior

Smothered in leather, the interior of the Morgan is a superb place to be. The performance heated Stone leather seats are perfect for those early morning runs into the countryside on a crisp day, and should there be a couple of spots of rain (we are in Britain, after all), the leather is also waterproof. The Morgan-embroidered seats are in excellent condition, with just a couple of minor marks noted on the sills from getting in and out. The door cards are also in good order, with elasticated door pockets providing useful storage.

Sitting behind the 14-inch Moto-Lita wood-rim steering wheel, you’ll notice a couple of minor age-related scratches on the aluminium and some small indentations on the wood rim.

The superb walnut dashboard houses the instruments, which are said to be working correctly, with the odometer showing 10,227 miles. All of the switchgear is in good order and reportedly working as it should. There is also a factory-fitted Alpine head unit tucked away under the dashboard. The carpets have a small amount of wear on the driver’s side in line with the clutch pedal.

Mechanical

It may look like a classic, but say goodbye to starting and reliability issues. With the more modern Ford 3.7-litre Cyclone V6, the car fires up without hesitation - and yes, it sounds fantastic!

It is a V6, after all, but this is further enhanced by the addition of a factory-installed rear-exit sports exhaust system fitted from the cat-back. There are no issues reported with the running of the car, and the Morgan pulls strongly through the six-speed gearbox.

The front suspension has adjustable platforms, giving you the option to set your desired ride height should you wish. On the road, the car handles superbly, with the live rear axle bringing a classic feel to an engaging driving experience. Fitted with vented discs at the front and drums at the rear, these provide adequate stopping power for the lightweight Morgan.

Looking at the Morgan’s underside, it presents well with just a small amount of road grime. All of the suspension components appear to be in good order with no real signs of surface corrosion.

History

Even though just over 10,000 miles have been covered, the Morgan has been well maintained with regular services, the last one being carried out on the 11th of April 2024 at 10,155 miles. These services are backed up with the relevant invoices, along with additional invoices for some minor repairs.

The original owner’s handbooks are present, including the Alpine head unit instruction manual, the original sales invoice, build specification sheet, certificate of conformity, certificate of newness, and the customer satisfaction delivery form.

There is a current MoT on the car, which is set to expire on the 24th of July 2025. It is also worth noting that the car has been under an extended warranty until January 2025, so any issues that have occurred under warranty have been addressed.

Summary

With a slightly modern take on what is a true British classic, the 2018 Morgan Roadster is a blend of classic styling, exhilarating performance, and handcrafted workmanship - a tribute to Morgan’s enduring legacy.

Without the need for driver aids, this is one of the last few normally aspirated 3.7-litre V6s where you can feel fully connected to the car without the interference of technology.

Ready to experience pure driving pleasure in what is virtually a car that has just been run in? With only 10,227 miles covered, it is the perfect weekend toy or even a collector’s car - one that could be yours for what we estimate will fetch in the region of £40,000 - £45,000.

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and this lot is located at Bonhams|Cars Online HQ. Viewings are STRICTLY BY APPOINTMENT and we are open weekdays between 10am - 12pm or 2pm - 4pm. To make a booking, please use the ‘Enquire About This Vehicle’ button on the listing. Feel free to ask any questions, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.

About this auction

Seller

Private: TMO


Viewings Welcome

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and is strictly by appointment. To book one in the diary, please get in contact.

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