1963 Morgan Plus 4 – Exterior and Interior – Oldtimer-Meeting Baden-Baden 2022
By 1963, the Morgan Plus 4 had already been in production for over a decade, yet its appearance suggested continuity rather than change. Beneath its pre-war silhouette, however, was a capable 2.1-litre engine and competition-proven chassis. The result was a sports car that combined traditional craftsmanship with credible performance.
Technical Details
The 1963 Morgan Plus 4 was built by the Morgan Motor Company in Malvern Link. It retained the classic Morgan construction method: a steel chassis combined with an ash wood frame supporting aluminum body panels.
Power was supplied by a 2,138 cc inline four-cylinder engine sourced from Standard-Triumph, closely related to the unit used in the Triumph TR4. In Plus 4 specification, output was typically in the region of 100–105 bhp, depending on carburetor setup and tuning. Twin SU carburetors were standard. The engine drove the rear wheels through a four-speed manual gearbox.
The front suspension employed Morgan’s distinctive sliding pillar independent system, continuously refined but fundamentally unchanged in concept since earlier decades. At the rear, a live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs provided robustness and predictable handling characteristics. Braking in 1963 models was generally by hydraulic drum brakes, though front disc brakes began appearing on later versions during the mid-1960s.
With a kerb weight under 900 kilograms, the 1963 Plus 4 achieved a top speed of approximately 170 km/h (around 105 mph). The favorable power-to-weight ratio contributed to lively acceleration and responsive handling, especially on narrow or winding roads.
- Manufacturer: Morgan Motor Company
- Model Name: Morgan Plus 4
- Year of Manufacturing: 1963
Design
Visually, the 1963 Morgan Plus 4 differed little from earlier models, preserving the brand’s instantly recognizable profile. The upright radiator grille, separate front wings, exposed headlamps, and long bonnet reflected a design lineage dating back to the 1930s.
The aluminum body panels mounted over the ash frame contributed to both light weight and distinctive craftsmanship. The open two-seater configuration featured a folding soft top and removable side screens, reinforcing its traditional roadster identity. Wire-spoke wheels were commonly fitted, enhancing the car’s period-correct appearance.
Inside, the cabin was compact and focused. The dashboard typically included centrally mounted round gauges set within a painted or veneered fascia. Leather-trimmed seats and simple controls reflected hand-built production rather than mass manufacturing techniques. The overall design prioritized mechanical engagement and driver connection over modern comfort features.
Historical Significance
The Morgan Plus 4, introduced in 1950, represented a step up in performance from the smaller Morgan 4/4. By 1963, it had become the company’s principal four-cylinder sports car and had built a reputation for competitive capability in club racing and endurance events.
Morgan’s adherence to traditional construction methods was unusual in the early 1960s, as many competitors adopted monocoque bodies and more contemporary styling. Nevertheless, the Plus 4’s combination of low weight and reliable engines allowed it to remain competitive and appealing to a niche audience.
The model also maintained Morgan’s association with motorsport, where Plus 4s competed in hill climbs, rallies, and circuit racing. Its sustained production through the 1960s demonstrated the viability of a small manufacturer offering incremental technical refinement rather than wholesale redesign.
Quirks and Pop Culture
The sliding pillar front suspension remains one of the most frequently discussed aspects of Morgan engineering. While unconventional compared with double-wishbone systems, it contributes to the car’s direct steering feel.
The use of an ash wood frame is another defining characteristic, reflecting craftsmanship traditions rarely seen in modern automotive manufacturing. Owners often emphasize the tactile nature of the driving experience, with minimal insulation between driver and mechanical components.
Today, the 1963 Morgan Plus 4 is valued for embodying continuity within the British sports car tradition. It appears regularly at classic car events, where its distinctive silhouette stands apart from more modern 1960s designs.
Display and preservation:
The vehicle was exhibited at the Oldtimer-Meeting Baden-Baden in 2022. Set in the elegant spa gardens of Baden-Baden, this open-air event is one of Germany’s most atmospheric classic car gatherings. The 2022 edition marked the 46th year of the meeting and featured over 350 carefully selected vintage vehicles from across Europe. With its picturesque backdrop and festive ambiance, the event draws thousands of visitors who stroll among historic automobiles, enjoy live music, and take in themed displays. In 2022, American classics and convertibles were especially well represented, reflecting the event’s continued celebration of both international and domestic automotive heritage.
Conclusion
The 1963 Morgan Plus 4 combined a 2.1-litre Standard-Triumph inline four-cylinder engine with lightweight aluminum bodywork mounted on an ash frame. Featuring rear-wheel drive and sliding pillar front suspension, it delivered strong performance within a traditional construction framework. At a time of rapid automotive modernization, the Plus 4 remained committed to craftsmanship and mechanical clarity, securing its place as a distinctive and enduring British sports car.
