I was lucky enough to have a ride in a Plus 8 Roadster driven by Morgan's Technical Director. I also chatted to their Sales Director.

1. the Aero 8's roof is designed and parts have been ordered.

2. roof has 2 steel frames which mirror the shape of the windows .. these frames slot into the top edges of the windscreen and the "B" pillars.

3. the roof then goes over the frame. I didn't remember to ask whether the rest of the roof had other metal bits; I suspect it must have a frame of some sort!

it will be a mohair 3 layered roof (rubber layer in between for insulation). the idea is to have an effective roof (hopefully, this means no more leaks!).

4. the hinge for the rear lid, as seen in Geneva in not going to change. however, the gas cannister may be repositioned to improve luggage room.

5. the chassis is 20% stiffer than the current Aero, and Morgan has improved suspension and other bits.

6. Morgan only has around 270 BMW V8s left .. no more available.

7. Future Aero's likely to have 6 cyclinder engines .. this will hopefully make Aero's more of a reasonable proposition in countries which impose import taxes and/or road taxes based on engine capacity (such as Ireland, NL and China).

8. Dealer demos are due just before Christmas, all at the same time. Dealers get to pick their demos up from Malvern on the same day.

9. It is possible to secure a slot now .. they have 53 orders already. Apparently now looking at early April 16 slots. Production starts in Ocotober 15.

10. Morgan is asking dealers for £9000 deposit, apparently dealers will in turn ask £15000. Deposit is non-refundable, but can be used against any other Morgan product.

11. Price list due in approx 1 month. 80k base price is for manual gearbox and no air bags.

12. Silver car that was on display has a solid plastic back end, it is the first prototype built .. the rear lid therefore did not open.

Silver Aero 8 on display felt and looked well built. It seems like the focus on improving quality is bearing dividends. I also saw new Plus 4s with metal door hinges.

I was very impressed with the Plus 8 roadster. Sounds wonderfully old school, rode beautifully (much better than I expected) and handled well too .. all from the passenger seat of course.

Based on a very short interaction with the Plus 8, I can really see an Aero 8 in my garage.