The old indeed tend to fear the future. Not because they are old. But because they have lived long enough to understand that the wide-eyed optimism of youth is impossible. We grew up dreaming of a Blade Runner universe but ended up in a Demolition Man reality. That is why many are welcoming the charmingly retro Morgan Super 3 with open arms.
We live in interesting times, but you can always trust Morgan – masters of the old school – to soldier on in tradition. While it certainly looks like the reborn 3 Wheeler, Morgan has grander ambitions for the Morgan Super 3.
More revolution than evolution
No longer built just for greying nostalgic Anglophiles, this Morgan is destined for Europe, Japan, Australia, and North America. Fittingly, the new trike carries some rather revolutionary advancements by the company’s standards.
According to Morgan, the Super 3 is its first model with a monocoque construction. What’s more, is that there is no more wood in its construction. And the instrument dials are no longer analogue, but digital displays. Shock, horror, Morgan is truly joining the rest of us in the 21st century.
The more observant will notice the absence of an exposed V-twin cylinder engine. Instead, it packs a Ford-derived 87kW 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated three-cylinder engine beneath its bonnet. With the engine now situated behind the front axle, the Super 3 boasts better weight distribution.
With an MX-5 five-speed transmission – as is tradition – doling out power, the Super 3 gets to 100km/h in 7 seconds. Fast enough for something with Tupperware covers for windscreens.
The engineering beneath the Morgan Super 3
Retro-galore aside Morgan Super 3 is resplendent with neat engineering solutions. The headlight mounts are structural and act as a brace between the upper and lower wishbone suspension structure.
To ensure adequate cooling, the Super 3’s shaped lightweight front pull-rod suspension assists airflow into the radiators. Likewise, the sideblades are there for more than just aesthetics. According to Morgan, it acts as diffuser plates that “efficiently manage inbound and exhaustive airflow” through its compact radiators.
Morgan even kept the retro vibes going with the wheels. No off-the-shelf options here. Morgan partnered with Avon to develop unique 130/90 R20 tyres that sport the look of a heritage motorcycle tyre.
The growing retro-revolution
Considering that the 3 Wheeler was no bargain, one can expect the Morgan Super 3 to command a premium. As such, Morgan is making the most of its inevitable rarity with over 200 available options. A neat draw for the more well-heeled enthusiasts to spec it to their heart’s content.
Like Morgan’s other cars, the Super 3 will continue to be a rare curiosity. However, its unabashed throwback to a more adventurous era of motoring is welcomed.
With electric powertrains and autonomous technology, we are charging headlong into an unknown future of efficiency and efficacy. Luckily companies like Morgan and the resto-modding cottage industry are still enriching the automotive scene. Giving the world oddities that will perplex the rational.
Reliving a golden era of motoring for the few greying enthusiasts out there is never about the rationale. But that is what makes the automotive world much like the people who created it – a human experience. It was never meant to be an all-out pursuit of perfection and more.
Times will change, but the love for tradition and the familiar won’t. So let the future wait, and revel in the present, our last chance at the past.