Talk Morgan Forums Morgan Sports Cars Morgan Aero 8, 2012< Plus 8, SuperSports, Coupe & Aeromax Advice from Aero 8 Owners

Good day guys,

I am a current owner of a 1990 +8, and previously a 4/4 and another Plus 8. I am getting to the stage of wanting to swap out to an Aero 8, series 1 or preferably series 2. I would ask the current Aero 8 owners what are the downsides of the Aero 8 that I should both be aware of and look out for.

Thanks guys .......... Pete

Pete,

Difficult question to answer. Having had a Series 2 and not a +8 it would be difficult to really comment on the downside when comparing the two.

I enjoyed owning the Series 2 and didn't really see a down side to ownership. Service costs were reasonable when compared with other cars of similar performance, mechanicals fairly bullet proof.

Not much help I afraid but its a start.

Do you have a car in mind?

Hi asbojohn,

Thanks for the starter ......... No particular car in mind, just started the looking process, so I thought I would seek a bit of pros and cons from owners whilst I was trawling the web .....

Cheers ..... Pete

For what its worth, I had a Plus 8 for ten years from new (2002). Owned it alongside a 911 then an Aston V8 Vantage. Now running an S1 Aero (bought last June)in place of all of the above. I can't see any downside to the Aero over the Plus 8, only significant upside as a serious driver's car. Yes the Plus 8 has the classic looks but in my view this is more than compensated for in the entirely different drive experience of the Aero which is a real pleasure, almost in 911 territory in terms of performance and handling. Running costs of the Aero are very reasonable. A few temperamental glitches largely resulting from the inadequate battery and impact on starter motor, but hopefully that seems about it. Many key components from BMW which are about as good as it gets in terms of robustness. The Aero attracts all of the attention that the Plus 8 used to, no jealousy only smiles. Can thoroughly recommend the move. As an aside seems both Plus 8s and Aeros are appreciating in value.

Thanks gmcm,

Had an Aston V12 Vantage Volante for a brief period of time between Plus 8's ... Went back to the Plus 8 as the Volante was a serious drain on resources, always a warning light of some description, servicing costs made a serious dent in the pension. I'm now looking for a better driving car as now fully retired and wanting to get some touring in .... The boot would be an advantage in the Aero.

Cheers .... Pete

If you're touring you might find a series 2 ( rare beast indeed) the better option, easier roof a bit more luggage capacity and more cabin space.

I haven't looked for a while but the prices on S2 are still fairly strong and they don't appear that often.

Although I have not owned either an S1 or S2, from what is the normal topic of conversation, the S2 is a much improved car over the S1 and a smoother ride to boot.

Pete,

To add to your knowledge, I too have had my S1 for year now and after about 2k miles only minor issues. New battery, the car comes with a small odyssey battery and are noted for failing.
Handbrake adjustment, again this is a known issue with Aeros.
Headlight alignment, mine needed this after a service, probably because the wings have to come off and the lights, to get to the engine parts. If you look up the Aero forum on this site and keep going back you will pick up on various issues over the years.
Dave

I still think that is one of the best Morgan photos ever....

I agree with Asbo. I also did not get on with the handling of a +8 and so went directly to an Aero S2 and never looked back.

Running costs have been reasonable for a car of this performance and quality. Short of the battery and a few things the previous owner showed neglect on it is great.

I would imagine the following as benefits from my short drive in the +8.

Better hood arrangement, you can simply pull it up at lights etc if it starts to rain.
Better interior for comfort over longer distances.
Better ride.
More grip.
Better handling.
Less maintenance needed due to construction.
More power and performance with same lazy V8 feeling.

Differences of S1 and S2. Largely personal.
S1 hood is cooler. Single nut alloys are very cool.
S1 is more abundant than S2
S2 has many improvements

Brakes
Engine power and tune (40hp, more torque)
Wide body for wheel failing opposite lock moments
Younger and less miles overall
Normal wheels in case of spares

I would say it is worth buying either of them on condition and verified ownership/servicing more than anything else. I had a few things to put right on mine and it was very low milage.

Also I am no skinny mini so did not fit into an S1 comfortably ! Either is a beautiful car to own. Choose your budget, work out your preferred colour combinations and monitor the adds and forums.