British brand Morgan has revived the Aero 8 name for a new two-seater sports car. The redesigned and re-engineered model made its global debut this past week at the Geneva motor show, 15 years since the launch of the original Aero Eight.
A number of visual and mechanical changes are said to make this new 5th generation model the most high-tech Aero product to date.
Morgan head of design Jonathan Wells says the car’s exterior styling was influenced by open cars from the 1960s, reflecting a trend of long, fast and low shoulder lines and cabin focused body work.
“This project presented us with an opportunity to evaluate and capture exactly what defines Morgan,” says Wells. “Over the last 15 years the Aero Platform has successfully evolved both aesthetically and mechanically.”
From above, the view is meant to echo that of a boat deck. A rear opening clam shell boot is used to both tension and hide the new double-lined mohair hood. The two-seater will also come with an optional hardtop that transforms the car into a coupe.
Interior changes include new dashboard arrangements, real wood surrounds, textured box-woven carpets and leather trim. The introduction of a new air conditioning system means the car is more usable in warmer climates, a reflection of Morgan’s aim to expand into new global markets.
Underneath, the aluminium chassis gets increased torsional stiffness, a revised front end, all new suspension, anti-roll bars and a new BMW limited slip differential. The car also gets a BMW-sourced 4.8-litre V8 producing 362 bhp and 361 lb-ft of torque, which is mated to a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox.
The Aero 8 will enter production towards the end of the year in limited production numbers and will replace the Aero Coupé and Aero Supersports in Morgan’s product lineup.
Source: Morgan
