I've been kicking around the idea of a Morgan for a while- long before the 3 wheeler was reintroduced: best (or worst) of both worlds- at least for me- prewar character but new car reliability. I didn't seriously think about the 3 wheeler at first, because it just seemed too extreme, but I'm at a point where even smallish sports cars just seem too big, heavy and lux. I do almost zero highway driving these days, and when I do drive, it's either B roads for fun or getting someplace in town. (I'm a NY'er, but relocating to Austin).
So, here's my take along with a few questions:
1. Endemic Issues/Reliability. Having read through the various threads, there were problems with bevel drive noise, and bump steer, but those seem to have been largely rectified in the newer production. Is that true? Anything else I should be aware of that is a chronic problem or one that affects reliability? I need something that is fairly reliable, because I'll drive the damn thing, and I'm not from the old 'stiff upper lip' school, let's take out the tool kit and work on the car in the middle of a drive. That would make me nuts.
2. Superdry. Many of the things about the edition appeal to me- panel finish, interior, wire cages on headlamps, etc. But, is it perceived as too silly by serious Morgan people? I had never heard of Superdry before (heard of Superfly, might dig that, plays the Curtis Mayfield theme on start-up). There also seem to be variations on this edition- some have black heat shields, no checkered flag motif on the front cycle fender, etc. Is it too 'branded'? I gather I can option a bespoke car to achieve close to the same look without the entire Superdry motif, but probably at greater cost. Any consensus on the Superdry as a credible special edition?
3. Dealer. Thinking about ordering the car through Morgan West, not because it is convenient, but simply because he seems to do the most volume in the States, and probably has the most know-how here. Dennis said he can service the beast in Austin through local, affiliated mechanics.
4. Texas. Anybody here in Austin? I'd use the thing to drive locally, and probably to go on jaunts in the hill country. I wouldn't mind having a local network of fellow owners to share knowledge, drives and the occasional brisket BBQ.
Nice forum. Glad I'm here.
