Morgan's Iconic 3 Wheeler: A Timeless Thrill

The Enduring Appeal of the Morgan 3 Wheeler

For automotive enthusiasts, certain names evoke a visceral reaction, a sense of nostalgia mixed with pure driving pleasure. Morgan Motor Company is undoubtedly one such marque, and at its heart lies the iconic 3 Wheeler. This distinctive three-wheeled marvel isn't just a car; it's a statement, a piece of rolling art that harks back to a bygone era of motoring while embracing modern innovation. The question on many lips is, "Does Morgan still sell a 3 Wheeler?" The definitive answer is a resounding yes, and the current iteration continues to capture the imagination of drivers seeking an experience unlike any other.

A Legacy Forged in Three Wheels

The success of the Morgan Motor Company was, in large part, founded upon the manufacture of its namesake, the Morgan Threewheeler. This brilliant, yet deceptively simple design, conceived by engineer Harry Morgan (HFS), quickly became one of the most successful lightweight vehicles of the early motoring days. From 1909 to 1953, an impressive approximately 30,000 Morgan Threewheelers rolled off the production line in Malvern. Furthermore, many more were produced under license by Darmont Morgan in France. For a great many fortunate owners, these vehicles represented their first taste of the liberating freedom that car ownership could offer. The combination of rapid acceleration and an exceptional cruising range of over 50 miles per gallon of petrol was, in its day, an unbeatable proposition. On the race track, the car proved its mettle, famously clinching victory in the 1913 French Grand Prix and consistently lapping the banked Brooklands circuit at an average speed exceeding 100 mph. Even Stirling Moss, a legendary figure in motorsport, famously owned one and was quoted as saying, “My Morgan was a great babe magnet.”

The 3 Wheeler for the 21st Century

While the world has evolved dramatically since the early days of the Threewheeler, the allure of this unique machine remains potent. In an era where road transport faces significant challenges concerning resource conservation and environmental protection, the Morgan 3 Wheeler offers a compelling, albeit niche, solution. Its philosophy of downsizing and simplicity aligns perfectly with the demands of the 21st century. The 2021 Morgan 3 Wheeler is a masterful fusion of classic design principles with contemporary technology. It is powered by an S&S 1990 cc V-twin engine and mated to a Mazda 5-speed gearbox, ensuring ‘get in and drive’ simplicity and unwavering reliability. The passenger compartment is cocooned by a robust tubular frame and two protective rollover bars. An aerodynamically sculpted ‘bullet’ hull shields occupants from the elements. Yet, the profound sense of freedom and the intimate connection with the road, transmitted through the front wheels, evokes the joy of driving cars from the 1920s and 30s, but without their inherent fragility or temperamental nature. The leather-padded, aircraft-style cockpit further enhances the feeling of ‘flying through the air’. This refinement of the original concept has resulted in a truly unique 21st-century vehicle. With an overall weight under 500kgs and a slippery hull, it delivers supreme performance and exceptional fuel economy. The Morgan 3 Wheeler boasts an unrivalled power-to-weight ratio for its on-the-road price point, making it a truly special proposition.

Key Specifications and Features

The specification of the Morgan 3 Wheeler is meticulously designed to provide the driver with precisely what they need, all while encapsulating Morgan’s time-proven DNA. The undeniably attractive design cues, evident in the Sport range of traditional Morgan models, form the foundation of these vehicles. A typical specification includes:

For complete and detailed information, interested parties are encouraged to contact Morgan Motors of New England directly.

Reinterpreting Tradition: The M3W Philosophy

Morgan has consistently prioritised tradition, and in re-launching the Morgan 3 Wheeler (M3W), the Malvern-based niche sports car manufacturer has emphatically returned to its 1910 roots. Morgan cars have, for over a century, kept traditional techniques, such as the use of Ash wood for frames, elliptical rear springs, and sliding pillar front suspension, alive and well. Interestingly, their engine partnerships have also been remarkably long-standing. Ford, for instance, has supplied many engines, from their 1930s side-valve units to the more modern Sigma engines up to 2013, and everything in between. Even today, purchasing a Morgan 4/4 often means receiving a product built with the original construction principles: an aluminium body over an Ash frame attached to a steel chassis. This enduring approach is a testament to the demands of loyal customers and a strong commitment to heritage.

While semi-elliptical springs and a live back axle are understandable on a four-wheeled vehicle, the sliding pillar front suspension, in particular, can seem at odds with the natural physics involved when a car leans into a corner. One might question if the front suspension is designed to move in an arc. This is precisely where the new Morgan 3 Wheeler (M3W) deviates slightly from strict tradition, adopting a more modern approach. It features large diameter, widely spaced twin motorcycle wheels at the front, supporting a prominent air-cooled engine. The centre houses an open, leather-clad cockpit, and at the rear, a discreetly mounted single wheel drives the vehicle. Beneath the retro styling, however, lie aircraft-quality aluminium box sections, wishbone suspension at the front, and a single trailing arm at the rear. This entire package is wrapped in ice-cool retro styling that pays homage to the pioneers of both motoring and aviation.

A Canvas for Imagination

Morgan's marketing department must have relished the opportunity to create the M3W, presenting a blank canvas upon which to re-enact every pre-war scenario imaginable, whether witnessed first-hand, seen in black-and-white films, or simply dreamt. From early hillclimb competition cars to romantic picnics for two, and even imaginary bi-plane battles in the sky, there is a colour decal combination to suit every fantasy. This approach mirrors the successful strategies employed by BMW with the Mini and Fiat with the modern 500, but with an added layer of unique character. The M3W can confidently claim the title of the ultimate retro car of our time, bringing 1910 motoring into 2013 with remarkable success, and seemingly without attracting the attention of the health and safety brigade. Morgan has truly achieved something special.

The Driving Experience: A Blend of Eras

Slipping into the M3W is an experience in itself. Resting on a comfortable leather cushion, the driver is immediately confronted with a harmonious blend of old and new. The car's side, where your elbow rests, firmly places it no later than the mid-1960s by any standard. Looking across the cylindrical bonnet reveals the top of a V-twin engine, a sight that unmistakably evokes the pre-1940s era, while the single driven wheel at the rear further solidifies this vintage impression. While other manufacturers have adopted similar configurations, the M3W's completely hidden rear wheel and understated styling are what truly set it apart as pre-1940s. Contrasting this vintage aesthetic are modern conveniences such as a quick-release removable steering wheel, a slick 5-speed Mazda MX5 sourced gearbox, a trip computer, one-touch indicators, and an electronic immobiliser. This coexistence of old-world charm and modern functionality is a hallmark of the M3W.

However, it's when you lift the fighter plane-esque starter switch guard and stir the 2.0-litre S&S sourced V-twin into life that the journey distinctly back in time truly begins. An air-cooled motorcycle twin powering a three-wheeler available brand new in 2013 is, frankly, unique. Pulling away, the 80bhp and 100lbs/ft of torque make their presence keenly felt through the superb gearbox and belt-driven drivetrain. The little M3W leaps off the line with an eagerness that rivals the antics of hot hatches at traffic lights. The only caveat is that any informal race should ideally be settled well before 60mph is reached, as exceeding this speed ushers you into a completely different realm within the M3W.

Navigating the Road: A Unique Challenge

As stable, forgiving, and predictable as the M3W is below 60mph, thanks to its modern wishbone suspension up front and single trailing arm at the rear (a departure from the cart spring and sliding pin suspension found even on contemporary Morgans), the experience changes significantly above that speed. The car's inherent lightness, combined with common modern highway hazards like potholes, sunken sections, and even debris, can make for a dramatic experience. It's akin to riding a motorcycle, but without the inherent stability of two wheels positioned one behind the other. In the M3W, drivers must retrain their brains to perceive the road surface in thirds, like an isosceles triangle, with the base at the front and the apex behind. At times, the front end can feel a little nervous; there's a certain geometry that tends to send the car either left or right depending on which wheel encounters a compression or pothole. This demands a high level of concentration, particularly given the M3W's relatively light weight. The rear, however, is a pleasant surprise, behaving far more predictably than one might expect. Single-wheel drive and traction through corners might not sound like a recipe for success, but in the M3W, the rear wheel performs brilliantly. It is the front that demands all the attention; the back end seems quite content to follow along.

The Verdict: Pure Driving Joy

The M3W is, by its very nature, an extremely playful machine, a true puppy dog of both the modern and classic car worlds. If you recall the drive of a Mini Cooper S up a challenging hill, imagine that same level of fun, but delivered in a more humble setting. Every hill, every road, every town, village, and corner driven in the M3W becomes an adventure. Once you overcome the initial shock of having only three wheels, the limited legroom, and a seatbelt that seems to fit awkwardly, the only way to describe the M3W is quite brilliant. It's the puppy dog you crave, the Mini Cooper S you always promised yourself, and so much more. It might just be love at first drive, even for a short 80-mile journey.

The experience is so captivating that even in chilly conditions, with a significant wind chill factor and occasional snow, it's a drive you'd readily repeat. The key ingredients that contribute to this unique charm include the distinctive V-twin noise, the engaging starter switch, the inimitable three-wheel handling, the exhilarating light weight, the slick 5-speed gearbox, the punchy acceleration from a standstill, and even the subtle warmth provided by the engine when stopped at traffic lights. It's a car that simply wants to have fun, and it infects its driver with that same infectious enthusiasm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Morgan still produce the 3 Wheeler?

Yes, Morgan Motor Company continues to produce the 3 Wheeler, offering a modern interpretation of this iconic vehicle.

What engine powers the modern Morgan 3 Wheeler?

The modern Morgan 3 Wheeler is typically powered by a 1990cc S&S V-twin engine.

What is the gearbox used in the Morgan 3 Wheeler?

It is fitted with a Mazda 5-speed manual gearbox.

What is the approximate weight of the Morgan 3 Wheeler?

The estimated weight is around 500kg.

Is the Morgan 3 Wheeler suitable for long journeys?

While incredibly fun, the M3W's lightweight nature and open cockpit mean that long journeys on modern, fast roads may require more concentration than in a conventional car. It excels on scenic routes and less demanding roads.

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