Morgan Aero Coupe Car Review - May 2013

As with most Morgan models, the cabin is very snug, but unlike cars in the lower echelons of the range there is a more solid sensation to the design and construction of the dashboard and control without losing its bespoke feel. The excellent six-speed automatic gearbox is married to a 4.8-litre, BMW V8 engine. This power unit generates a ferocious 368bhp and 361 lb-ft of torque, giving the car a 0-62mph of just four-and-a-half seconds, and a top speed of 170 mph. Despite this phenomenal power, the Morgan Aero Coupe copes much better than lesser Morgan models, with the steering and braking systems much more able, and despite the absence of electronic stability control the excellent chassis and suspension ensures roll in the corners is minimised.

The sculpted lines of the Morgan Aero Coupe are unmistakably Morgan, but with a sharper and more contemporary finish than traditional models. The 2-door coupe will undoubtedly turn heads compared to most other designs on the market, despite its slight cross-eyed looks. Don’t expect the Morgan Aero Coupe to be as brimming with toys as offering from more mainstream manufacturers though. The list of standard equipment is short, with power steering, central locking, alloy wheels, air con, electric windows, metallic paint, cruise control, leather seats, driver and passenger airbags, immobiliser, and CD player with MP3 connectivity, all included. The scope for adding optional extras is also limited.

The Morgan Aero Coupe misses out on some of the more common safety features you will find included on even the average family car today. For instance, there is no electronic stability control, nor front side airbags. It does however have airbags for both driver and passenger. Practicality probably won’t feature too highly on the list of requirements for the prospective Morgan driver, and although the boot is surprisingly roomy the high mounted boot lid makes it cumbersome to access. While the reliability of the BMW V8 engine should be reliable, the terms of the standard manufacturers warranty are hardly reassuring. The standard warranty is for a disappointing two year period, and is limited to just 24,000 miles.

At £99,950, the Morgan Aero Coupe is not cheap to buy, and it won’t be cheap to run either. It has a combined fuel economy of a meagre 25.7 mpg combined, and urban figures fall as low as 17.2 mpg. The CO2 emissions readings for the Morgan Aero Coupe are also a cause for some alarm, as the 4.8-litre petrol engine produces a colossal 256g/km, which will give your wallet a hearty punch in the kidneys every time you come to tax the car. Morgan’s have traditionally made unremarkable progress in the resale market, and are very much an enthusiast’s car. With that near hundred grand price tag, the Morgan Aero Coupe will have to work even harder to combat the effects of depreciation.