I had a long chat with Richard Williams about Morgan vs Lotus. Both make about the same number of cars, Lotus factory is ultra modern and high-tech, but they run at a loss. The Morgan factory is the reverse, in all respects.
A Lotus, from new, depreciates rapidly and will have some niggles, mostly electrical. A new Morgan depreciates slowly and may also have a few niggles.
They are very different driving experiences, but the Lotus lacks character and crucially, well off middle aged men with enough disposable income to buy what they want don't want a Lotus.
Peter, 66, 2016 Porsche Boxster S No longer driving Tarka, the 2014 Plus 8...
Only Lotus I ever drove was a Europa TC back in '81'ish, in JPS black/gold. I'd like to try an Elise, just for reference... Don't think would ever manage to get in one. Friends who are into their sporting cars did try one, but the wide sill made ingress/egress very difficult plus Sal being on the short side couldn't reach the pedals... They ended up with various sporting saloons over the years (except for the 997 Carrera 4). A tour of the Lotus factory last (?) year was certainly enlightening and we had a great tour guide!
Last edited by Graham, G4FUJ; 10/10/1306:11 AM. Reason: factory tour
Graham (G4FUJ)
Sold L44FOR 4/4 Giallo Fly '09 Gen2 MINI Cooper ragtop '90 LR 90 SW
Graham - I still have the Roadster, of course. The Elise was an itch which had to be scratched while there was still sufficient articulation in my joints. For those whose main concern is investment potential, I buy cars to drive and enjoy (10k miles a year in the Morgan) and to hell with the depreciation! You cannot put a price on the enjoyment (and frustration) you experience, and, as they say here, "you are a lang time deid". Don.
Sounds good to me Don. I'd be happy just to drive one to see what they're like. Likewise, I buy mine to drive too (and that includes the LRs, though I think the Hippo will hve to be replaced with a cheap runabout for a couple of years - new heating boiler required). May not make next year's June Hill Climb - looks like may join in the Highland trip and there is no way I'll get a chance to view motorsport...
Graham (G4FUJ)
Sold L44FOR 4/4 Giallo Fly '09 Gen2 MINI Cooper ragtop '90 LR 90 SW