Morgan brings Three Wheeler back to life

‘When did you last regard a journey by motor car as an adventure?’ asks Morgan, who has just released the 21st century reinterpretation of the first vehicle the firm ever built – the Morgan Three Wheeler.

Coming in at £25,000 before taxes in the UK, this novel new offering from the Malvern firm is aimed directly at two other great British establishments; the Lotus Elise and the Caterham Seven. Both offer a bracing open-air experience, but can the future of the British sports car really lie in the past?

Given the success Westfield had when it re-released their kit-copy of the Lotus XI racer, Morgan’s chances look good. The original Three Wheeler was produced between 1909 and 1953, Stirling Moss proclaiming his to be a ‘babe magnet.’

For those that find a standard Three Wheeler just that bit too common, a dive into the options list uncovers a variety of aesthetic options for all tastes. Owners can choose to evoke the classic Three Wheeler look, Morgan offers the engine, tailpipes, cowl, headlamp surrounds and roll hoops in polished metal, as opposed to the standard gloss or matte black finish.

Keen pilots can express their aeronautical bent with a variety of USAF and RAF inspired decals, with the shark nose graphic evoking the Spitfires and Hurricanes of WW2, whilst Morgan also offers a range of more generalised decals; including the Morgan logo, a chequered flag bonnet, national flags, racing ovals and stripes. Meanwhile, owners with deeper pockets can specify their Three Wheeler with bespoke leather and exterior paint.

The Morgan’s low-slung design has changed little for this reincarnation, providing both a low centre of gravity and compact dimensions. Despite this, Morgan claims that the Three Wheeler can still ably accommodate two adults in the cabin and a reasonable amount of luggage in the rear holdall.

The car is approved by US and European road transport authorities for safety and emissions – highlighting Morgan’s desire to appear relevant in a world focused on downsizing and decreasing CO2 emissions.

Not that this new focus should have any effect on performance, as the Three Wheeler will reach 60mph in 4.5 seconds on its way to a top speed of 115mph. The Three Wheeler uses a motorcycle-derived V-twin engine, with drive going through a five-speed Mazda gearbox to the single rear wheel.

For safety’s sake, power reaches the rear wheel through a sturdy V-belt whilst the rear tyre itself has been reinforced to ensure that it’s up to the task of harnessing all 115bhp. With a kerb weight of just 500kg, a flick of the toggle switches and a press of the ‘bomb release’ starter button should be all it takes to enjoy the closest thing there is to flying without wings.