I think the confusion here is that the original post was asked in relation to the bonnet strap on the newer M3W which is cosmetic only
The bonnet straps on 4 wheeler models and I'm guessing if there are any on old 3W'er models do/did have a function in stopping the bonnets flying off in race crashes
I think the small risk of scratching is a small price to pay for what is an aesthetic niceity and a accessory in keeping with the design age of trad styled Morgans and their racing heritage
There aren't many cars where a bonnet strap looks so appropriate
