1962 Morgan Plus 4 – Exterior and Interior – Oldtimer-Meeting Baden-Baden 2021
In 1962, the Morgan Plus 4 still relied on pre-war construction principles while competing with far more modern rivals. Its sliding pillar front suspension and ash wood frame were already unusual by contemporary standards. Yet this combination of tradition and performance gave the Plus 4 a distinct identity within the British sports car market.
Technical Details
The 1962 Morgan Plus 4 was produced by the Morgan Motor Company in Malvern Link, England. Unlike many competitors that had adopted monocoque construction, Morgan continued to use a steel chassis combined with an ash wood frame supporting aluminum body panels.
Power in 1962 typically came from a 2,138 cc inline four-cylinder engine supplied by Standard-Triumph. This unit, shared in origin with the Triumph TR series, produced approximately 100–105 bhp depending on specification and carburetion. Twin SU carburetors were commonly fitted. The engine drove the rear wheels via a four-speed manual gearbox.
The Plus 4 retained Morgan’s characteristic sliding pillar independent front suspension, a design dating back to earlier decades but continually refined. At the rear, a live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs provided durability and simplicity. Braking was handled by hydraulic drum brakes, although disc brakes would be introduced to later Plus 4 models during the 1960s.
With a kerb weight typically under 900 kilograms, the 1962 Plus 4 achieved a top speed in the region of 170 km/h (approximately 105 mph). Its favorable power-to-weight ratio delivered lively acceleration and responsive handling, especially on winding roads.
- Manufacturer: Morgan Motor Company
- Model Name: Morgan Plus 4
- Year of Manufacturing: 1962
Design
The Morgan Plus 4’s design in 1962 closely resembled earlier iterations, maintaining the brand’s instantly recognizable silhouette. The long bonnet, separate front wings, upright radiator grille, and exposed headlamps created a distinctly traditional appearance.
The body was constructed with aluminum panels mounted over a wooden ash frame, a technique that set Morgan apart from most contemporaries. The folding soft top and removable side screens reinforced its open sports car character. Wire-spoke wheels were frequently specified, contributing to its classic profile.
Inside, the cabin was compact and driver-focused. The dashboard typically featured centrally positioned round instruments set within a painted or veneered panel. Leather upholstery and simple trim reflected handcrafted production rather than mass manufacturing. The overall aesthetic emphasized continuity with Morgan’s pre-war heritage rather than alignment with contemporary styling trends.
Historical Significance
The Morgan Plus 4 was first introduced in 1950 as a more powerful alternative to the earlier 4/4 model. By 1962, it had become the company’s principal four-cylinder sports car, positioned between the smaller 4/4 and the more powerful Plus 8 introduced later in the decade.
Morgan’s adherence to traditional construction methods was both a limitation and a strength. While technically conservative in some respects, the lightweight body and robust engines allowed the Plus 4 to compete effectively in club racing and hill climbs. Morgans achieved notable success in endurance events, including class victories at Le Mans in earlier years.
In the early 1960s, as many British manufacturers moved toward more modern designs, the Plus 4 maintained a niche appeal among drivers seeking a more traditional sports car experience. Its continued production reflected Morgan’s commitment to incremental development rather than radical redesign.
Quirks and Pop Culture
The sliding pillar front suspension remains one of the most discussed technical features of Morgan cars. Though unconventional by 1960s standards, it provided precise steering feel and durability.
The ash wood frame, often highlighted in discussions of Morgan craftsmanship, contributes to the car’s distinctive construction identity. Owners frequently emphasize the tactile and mechanical nature of driving a Plus 4, which differs noticeably from more modern monocoque sports cars.
Today, the 1962 Morgan Plus 4 is appreciated for preserving traditional British sports car values in an era of rapid technological change. It appears regularly at classic car rallies and historic motorsport events, where its combination of heritage and performance continues to resonate.
Display and preservation:
The vehicle was exhibited at the Oldtimer-Meeting Baden-Baden in 2021. This event, held annually in the spa town’s Kurpark and along the Kaiserallee, is one of Germany’s most picturesque classic car gatherings. In 2021, the 44th edition featured 300 vintage vehicles from 80 different brands, including rare models. The event embraced a 1970s theme, showcasing over 40 vehicles from that era. An innovative highlight was the “automobile fashion show,” where models presented current fashion trends while riding in open-top classic cars through the park. The event concluded with the traditional Concours d’élégance, awarding 120 prizes across 15 categories.
Conclusion
The 1962 Morgan Plus 4 combined a 2.1-litre Standard-Triumph inline four-cylinder engine with lightweight aluminum bodywork mounted on an ash frame. Featuring sliding pillar front suspension and rear-wheel drive, it delivered strong performance within a traditional construction framework. At a time when many competitors embraced modern design, the Plus 4 maintained Morgan’s distinct engineering philosophy. It remains a clear example of continuity and craftsmanship within the British sports car tradition.
