With Morgan announcing the end of the road for its 83-year old steel ladder chassis, it seemed like as good a time as any to remind ourselves that the feature isn't the be all and end all of Morgan cars. After all, despite underpinning the vast majority of the models which have rolled out of the manufacturer's Malvern factory since 1910, there have been a notable few to already make the transition to aluminium - which, from 2020, all Morgan models will.
So rather than featuring a proponent of the now-antiquated technology - the 4/4, Plus 8, or Roadster, for example - we opted to go with none of the above. Instead deciding that the best way to recognise just how ready to embrace the future Morgan is, is to look at its recent past. More specifically, to look at one of the most modern, most exclusive, and most powerful models the company has ever produced: the AeroMax.
Originally designed as a one-off special, the AeroMax was commissioned by Prince Eric I. Sturdza - a banking magnate and deep-pocketed Morgan aficionado - and penned by 21-year Coventry University design student Matt Humphries, who was at Morgan on a work placement. To provide a more comfortable GT experience, the AeroMax took the convertible body and aluminium chassis of the Aero 8 on which it was based and added an elegant, swooping roofline to enclose the cabin.
It also benefited from Mini headlights in place of the VW Beetle items previously found on the Aero 8, a detail which had contributed to that car's infamously 'cross-eyed' appearance. At the rear, meanwhile, the Max's flowing lines were complemented by minimalist tail lights borrowed from the Lancia Thesis, a substitution which greatly improved the Aero's aesthetic.
Morgan's customers certainly seemed to think so, at least, with the company finding demand for the model to be unexpectedly high following its Geneva reveal. And with Sturdza's blessing, a 100 car run was planned. For around £110,000 a pop, buyers would receive something that previously seemed oxymoronic, a somewhat modern Morgan.
With the 4.4-litre, 330hp V8 powerplant of the soft-top traded for a new 4.8-litre producing 370hp and 361lb ft of torque, the performance offered by the 1,180kg car (0-62 in 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 170mph) was certainly on a par with its contemporaries. It also boasted a unique combination of coachbuilt flourishes - gullwing boot openings, a pleated leather interior and hand-crafted brightwork - with sensible staples such as air conditioning and cruise control.
Unfortunately those are features which the previous owner of today's Spotted never had the chance to experience for themselves. That's because, despite being over a decade old, this AeroMax has covered just 79 miles from new. What that does mean, however, is that this is potentially the most broadly appealing Morgan there's ever been. A delivery miles, limited edition for collectors; a box-fresh, V8-powered, analogue sports car with a six-speed manual for drivers. Classically elegant styling and coachbuilt quality for traditionalists; an aluminium chassis and a smattering of mod-cons for those who prioritise their comfort. It's all things to all men.
With a £75,000-premium being asked in exchange for what essentially amounts to a decade of careful storage, the price may understandably be a stumbling point for many. But for those looking for something truly special, the AeroMax has not only already cemented its place in Morgan's history, but also serves as a welcome reminder of just how bright its future could be too.
SPECIFICATION - MORGAN AEROMAX
Engine: 4,799cc, V8
Transmission: 6-speed manual, rear-wheel drive
Power (hp): 370@6,300rpm
Torque (lb ft): 361@3,600rpm
MPG: N/A
CO2: N/A
First registered: 2009
Recorded mileage: 79
Price new: £110,000
Yours for: £185,000
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