Morgan Plus 8 (1968-04)

COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.

The **Morgan Plus 8** is a classic car with a unique charm, but like any vehicle, it has its common faults. Here are some issues that owners have reported:

1. **Electrical Problems**: Issues with the mass airflow sensor (MAF), throttle position potentiometer, and ignition module are common.
2. **Fuel System Issues**: Problems with the fuel pump and fuel pump relay can cause the engine to stutter or stop.
3. **Headlamp Efficiency**: Some owners have reported issues with the main beam of their headlamps failing to turn on, often due to a faulty relay switch or alternator problem – Motor & Wheels](https://motorandwheels.com/problems-with-morgan-cars/).
4. **Seat Belt Warning Alarm**: There have been reports of inaccurate seat belt warnings, where the alarm beeps even when there is no one on the affected seat – Motor & Wheels](https://motorandwheels.com/problems-with-morgan-cars/).

These issues can often be resolved with proper maintenance and by addressing the specific faulty components.
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Generations/Trim Levels
The **Morgan Plus 8** has gone through two main generations:

1. **First Generation (1968-2004)**: This generation featured the classic design with a Rover V8 engine.
2. **Second Generation (2012-2018)**: This generation introduced a modernized version with a BMW V8 engine and an aluminum chassis.

### **Trim Levels Offered:**
- **Standard**: The base model with essential features.
- **Le Mans Edition**: A special edition inspired by the 1960s Plus 4 Le Mans winner.
- **35th Anniversary Edition**: Celebrating 35 years of the Plus 8 with unique features like a walnut dashboard and mesh behind the grille bars.
- **Speedster**: A more stripped-down, performance-focused version introduced in 2014.

The Plus 8's timeless design and powerful performance have made it a beloved classic among car enthusiasts - autoevolution](https://www.autoevolution.com/morgan/plus-8/).
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Engine
The **Morgan Plus 8** was equipped with different engines over its production years. Here are the specifications for two of the most notable engines:

### **3.5L V8 (1968-2004)**
- **Engine Size**: 3.5L (3528 cc)
- **Power Output**: 153 HP / 155 PS / 114 kW @ 5250 rpm
- **Torque**: 270 Nm / 199 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm

### **4.6L V8 (1998-2001)**
- **Engine Size**: 4.6L (4552 cc)
- **Power Output**: 220 HP / 223 PS / 164 kW @ 5000 rpm
- **Torque**: 353 Nm / 260 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

These engines contributed to the Plus 8's reputation for powerful performance and exhilarating driving experience.
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Performance
The **Morgan Plus 8** offers impressive performance, thanks to its powerful V8 engines. Here are the key performance specifications for two notable versions:

### **3.5L V8 (1968-2004)**
- **Power Output**: 153 HP / 155 PS / 114 kW @ 5250 rpm
- **Torque**: 270 Nm / 199 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm
- **Top Speed**: Approximately **124 mph (200 km/h)**
- **Acceleration (0-60 mph)**: Around **6.0 seconds**

### **4.6L V8 (1998-2001)**
- **Power Output**: 220 HP / 223 PS / 164 kW @ 5000 rpm
- **Torque**: 353 Nm / 260 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
- **Top Speed**: Approximately **135 mph (217 km/h)**
- **Acceleration (0-60 mph)**: Around **5.5 seconds**

The Plus 8 is known for its exhilarating driving experience, combining classic design with modern performance.
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Rivals
The **Morgan Plus 8** had several notable rivals, each offering their own unique performance characteristics. Here are some of the main competitors and their performance specifications:

### **Triumph TR8**
- **Engine**: 3.5L V8
- **Power Output**: 133 HP / 135 PS / 99 kW @ 5000 rpm
- **Torque**: 251 Nm / 185 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
- **Top Speed**: Approximately **125 mph (201 km/h)**
- **Acceleration (0-60 mph)**: Around **8.4 seconds**

### **TVR 350i**
- **Engine**: 3.5L V8
- **Power Output**: 190 HP / 193 PS / 142 kW @ 5500 rpm
- **Torque**: 270 Nm / 199 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
- **Top Speed**: Approximately **135 mph (217 km/h)**
- **Acceleration (0-60 mph)**: Around **6.3 seconds**

### **Marcos Mantula**
- **Engine**: 3.5L V8
- **Power Output**: 155 HP / 157 PS / 116 kW @ 5000 rpm
- **Torque**: 260 Nm / 192 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
- **Top Speed**: Approximately **130 mph (209 km/h)**
- **Acceleration (0-60 mph)**: Around **6.5 seconds**

These cars offered a mix of performance, style, and driving pleasure, making them strong rivals to the Morgan Plus 8.
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Designer/Dimensions
The **Morgan Plus 8** was designed by **Peter Morgan**, the owner-chairman of the Morgan Motor Company, with the development led by engineer **Maurice Owen**.

### **Dimensions:**
- **Length**: 3,708 mm (146 in)
- **Width**: 1,460-1,702 mm (57.5-67.0 in)
- **Height**: 1,321 mm (52 in)
- **Wheelbase**: 2,489 mm (98 in)
- **Curb Weight**: Approximately 851 kg (1,876 lbs)

The Plus 8's classic design and dimensions contribute to its timeless appeal and driving enjoyment.
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Valuation
The value of a **1968 Morgan Plus 8** in the UK in 2025 can vary significantly depending on its condition, originality, and provenance. Generally, prices range from **£32,480 to £81,875** for well-maintained examples.
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Clubs
There are Morgan car owners clubs in Northern Ireland. The **Morgan Sports Car Club** (MSCC) has a network of local centres across the UK, including Northern Ireland. You can find more information about their regional centres and activities on their [website](https://www.morgansportscarclub.com/regional-centres/list).
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