Trim levels: base

Price range: $61,000

Notes: In 1970, Morgan Motors, of Malvern Link, Great Britain, withdrew from American shores, beaten back by US emissions and crash requirements. Their two-year-old roadster, the Rover V8-powered Plus 8, went with them. For the next thirty years, Morgans were alive in America by a few enthusiasts who converted Moggies to meet US requirements (many were propane-powered in this period). Such dealers became "second-stage manufacturers," authorized by the DOT. In 2002, Morgan came back. The factory began converting cars to US specifications, and the dealer network began to expand. Innovation came slowly to Morgan: their last big change was when they went from 3 wheels to 4 in 1935. Nevertheless, the re-introduced Plus 8 was changed. Still powered by the old Rover V-8 (now fuel injected), the Plus 8 was made to comply with all US and EU regulations. The car's long hood and wide fender flares helped protect the occupants, and dual airbags were standardized. A humourous aspect of the Morgan is its meeting of US lighting requirements; the CHMSL (center high-mounted stop lamp) was perched over the external spare tire like some sort of periscope. Also, the Plus 8 was recently repackaged to give it 2" longer doors and more interior room. Legroom in the Morgan was indeed impressive, but its cockpit remained cramped due to very limited shoulder and head room. No power-up convertible top for this car; no windows, either: it only had side curtains. Door handles were optional. The interior featured a walnut dash, with heavily-bolstered leather seating. The driving position was exceptionally low. Power steering was not provided, nor was a stereo, except as a dealer-installed option. A five-speed manual was the only transmission choice, and the shift lever sat next to a flyaway release for the hand brake. An organ-style accelerator pedal was optional. In the end, the Plus was about tradition; those who understood it loved it, and those who didn't wondered why anyone would pay $61,000 for a car without power steering.

Series: 2002-2003

PERFORMANCE