Yes, I thought was a rather barbed comment Brian. Whilst you can't appeal to everyone's tastes with car design, the general consensus about the SP1 was that it was stunning and a very brave move by Morgan (and you!) to give the guys there something to stretch their talents. Like all cars, SP1 won't really show its true self until it is out on the road!
After the launch at Salon Prive, SP1 went viral and brought Morgan the most publicity they had ever had for a model, their words not mine. Despite some aspects of the design being somewhat Marmite, overall the response was very positive and even Top Gear was impressed and the article in the current edition also highlights the skill of some of the craftsmen involved in the factory. So a guy on a DG that I do not know does not like SP1 and keeps making barbed comments about it, probably thinking it will provoke an argument, his problem not mine as life's too short!
Getting back to engines, I believe that whilst legislation allows it, there should be a large capacity V8 in the model range, it's part of Morgan's heritage. The market out there for a V8 powered Aero, for example as you say, Germany, is sufficient to absorb the proposed build numbers. At some stage Morgan will need to develop the cars to accept engines to meet future legislation but diesels an absolute no no. They are going up a blind alley now after years of being pushed as the solution to reducing car emmisions.
I couldn't agree more, luckily Morgan have access to the BMW V8 for now though if you remember the Eva was supposed to have the 3-litre twin turbo straight six! I realise that that model became still-born, but it just shows that MMC are open to alternatives and who know even a hybrid, at some time in the future.
As you know from your closeness to the factory, the Development Department is currently very busy and whilst the Aero 8 is the culmination of a lot of work, there are other projects being developed and we look forward to seeing these launched in due course. I'm sure that the next development is a Trad, so that should keep the majority on TM happy.
