Hi Ian....welcome from another Northerner. I probably shouldn't say this, but please be clear about your expectations after years of driving xk's. You cannot compare a Traditional Morgan to any other modern car and it really is a very individual purchase. You are buying a classic car with its 1930s suspension and chassis albeit with modern engine, brakes and electrics but with no driving aids such as abs and traction control.
Whilst the hoods have improved over the years they can leak at the header rail in some instances although careful fitting of the rail when closing the hood will help.
The sighting of the central dash panel is traditional Morgan although they have changed the layout several times over their history. I swopped my speedo and three instrument cluster to bring the speedo closer and that's easily done. Traditionally the Rev counter is always situated in front of the steering wheel and I very much doubt the factory would swop that around in build particularly with the new Plus4 instruments. You do get use to it and I tend to drive on the Rev counter anyway.
There's no reason why you shouldn't tour in it, the only regular maintenance is the greasing of the front suspension every 1000 miles or so....which surprises non Morgan owners! It's just part of the fun believe me!!
At least you are being sensible and hiring a car to try it out. You need to do more than just a quick test drive to see if a Morgan is for you. If you gel with it, you will find it will get under your skin. Good luck and look me up at the Visitor Centre if I'm back on my feet when you pick up the hire car.
