Morgan Plus 8 GTR is a V8 swansong

Morgan’s new Plus 8 GTR brings a V8 back to the British marque’s line-up, powered by a 280kW, BMW-sourced 4.8-litre engine.

The limited-edition release is the first time in almost four years Morgan has sold a V8 in one of its models, but it requires different underpinnings to the current bonded aluminium platform of the four and six-cylinder Plus 4 and Plus 6 range.

In a turn of luck for V8 Morgan enthusiasts, the small car maker was able to purchase back nine frames of its previous-generation Plus 8 chassis from a bespoke carmaker, which had intended to use them but has since closed down.

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While the underlying architecture is older than the new aluminium platform, the appearance on top is contemporary and like current new models.

Added to this special GTR edition are some inspired enhancements from the race-going ‘Big Blue’ Morgan GT, which tore up tracks in the 1990s.

Some of the parts added on include an aluminium hardtop, vented bonnet, blistered arches, front splitter and rear diffuser, and unique lightweight alloy wheels.

“Striking design, the finest craftsmanship, and an exhilarating sportscar to drive, the Plus 8 GTR is the perfect swansong to the Morgan V8,” said Morgan CEO, Steve Morris.

“We have been delighted to work alongside customers from around the world during the design and build process, and we look forward to sharing the final examples over the coming months.”

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Handling is enhanced with the addition of tuned coilover suspension, larger brakes, and strengthening to the chassis and engine bay to reduce flex.

Underneath the bonnet is a BMW 4.8-litre V8 producing 10kW more peak power than the previous Plus 8 at 280kW. This is sent to the rear wheels via the choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions, the latter sourced from ZF.

The unique changes for the limited edition also include GTR nameplates inside and GTR dials for the dash, plus bespoke doorcards that close around carbon fibre seats with full racing harnesses.

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“We are excited to release the first images of the Plus 8 GTR following the design sketches published earlier this year,” said Morris.

“The Plus 8 GTR represents an opportunity for Morgan to celebrate the V8 engine once again, something we did not expect to do since finishing the Plus 8 and Aero 8 models in 2018.”

One of the nine cars has already been finished, with just eight remaining on the production line. The rarity of Morgan’s limited V8 comes at a price, though, with an expected price tag over $400,000.