My 1995 Plus Four ( Rover ) was delivered to me just as we went into lockdown and I had never driven it until yesterday.
It was my 70th birthday, the weather was fine and the chance to ride out in the Morgan for the first time, albeit a restricted run was too good a chance to miss, so complete with roof down and a basic picnic off we went.
The first few miles required such concentration getting used to the steering, which I likened to the boat I used to have where constant correction of oversteer was the order of the day. Then the incredibly bumpy ride, watching the long bonnet bouncing up and down all the time made me wonder how you would drive at night with the headlights bouncing like that. After 5 miles my wife then complained about a petrol smell making her feel nauseous. I stopped and looked all over but no signs of fuel leak from engine all the way back to the tank. When we set off again after about 20 miles I began to notice an exhaust fumes type smell and can only assume the exhaust exit pipe is allowing fumes to be sucked up by a vortex over the rear of the car and back into the cab.
No matter what speed I travelled at along country back roads or along smooth A roads, the ride was back breaking and I cannot imagine how a long journey would be possible. We managed 85 miles over 3 hours and the journey home was just a case of “how soon can we get back”. Both had headaches and backache.
Back home today after a few hours to reflect the situation, I don’t want to make any rash decisions without your input and comments, is this normal Morgan behaviour or is something seriously wrong. The car was fully examined and serviced by Morgan main dealer with new exhaust and tyres fitted for good measure before I took delivery, unfortunately they are still closed and anyway 230 miles away with a now nearly expired 3 month warranty period.
I have wanted a Morgan for last 20 years since I first came into contact with one at a classic motor show. I have owned many classic sports cars and motorbikes in the interim, all of which have gone to make way for this, my 70th birthday present to myself.
Your comments / views / suggestions all appreciated and I look to your group years of experience owning a Morgan to saveThe day.
