1980s/1990s Morgans

Sourcing new and used parts.

The first four-wheeled Morgan appeared in 1936 and, quite frankly, the four-cylinder cars from the 1980s and 1990s don’t look or drive much differently, despite offering better performance.

Between 1982 and 1993, the Morgan was fitted with Ford’s tried and tested 1597cc CVH overhead cam unit from the Fiesta XR2 and Escort XR3; this, in turn, was replaced by Ford’s venerable Zetec from 1993. The Malvern-built marvel was also given a Latin twist by being offered with Fiat’s 98bhp 1.6 Lampredi twin-cam in 1981; a meagre 92 were made between then and 1983. The rustic two-seater was also fitted with Fiat’s fuel injected 120bhp 2.0-litre twin-cam from the 131 between 1985 and 1988, the car reviving the Plus 4 name. Between 1988 and 1992, the Morgan Plus 4 also appeared with Rover’s M16 unit from the 820 with fuel injection and 138bhp. There was even a T16 version but, as with the saloon, it was plagued by oil leaks.

Unsurprisingly for a two-seater that’s always appealed due to its simplicity, these more modern Morgans are reliable and easy to work on. As for parts, things are slightly less straightforward. Morgan happily plundered other manufacturers’ parts bins for items like switchgear, and most engine parts such as seals, plugs and filters can be bought direct from factors. However, other items can be trickier. For example, you’ll be able to pick up a CVH water pump for £30, but it won’t necessarily fit the Morgan and you might have to reshape the inner valance to get enough clearance to run the belt – pumps that will fit start at £130. Front discs are unique to the Morgan, too.

Due to the car’s age, savvy owners won’t rely on the official Morgan dealer network for parts; instead, it will be a case of shopping at one of the many Morgan specialists. Indeed, a Morgan dealer we spoke to confirmed that the only items people usually buy from them are body panels and windscreens – front wings cost £1500, while a windscreen with frame will set you back around £900.