Talk Morgan Forums Morgan Sports Cars Classic Morgans (pre-CX) Managing Wife's Expectations (no, not like that)

I now have the chance to fulfill my childhood dream of owning a Morgan.

It will probably be after Christmas when I get one but I want to start managing expectations regarding such things as how harsh is the ride and how low down to the ground is the seat.

I will probably hire one for a day (Morgan that is, not wife) but I need the first trip to be a success.

If I leave preparation until the first time my wife climbs in the car she will say it's impossible for her to get in or out because of her arthritis etc and then she will defend that view no matter what I say.

However, if I tell her she probably can't get in, she will be determined to prove me wrong. (You learn these things after 40 years)

But if she is in pain after the first trip she will understably be reluctant to ride in it again.

So, as part of my preparation I would like to know, how high is the Morgan seat off the ground?
Are there any aids that will help someone who has two replacement hips with access and egress from the car?
And about the harsh ride, are there any recommended seat cushions etc that will mean she can enjoy the journey and walk afterwards?

Any help you can give will be appreciated.

Getting in and out becomes easier each time you do it.
It is a learning experience.
Step in, lean against the seat, slide down

Getting out: just try hard enough

Keep away from rough roads on your first trip and you’ll find the ride and the seats quite reasonable. The big issue is getting out of the car with two replacement hips and arthritis. That’s where you come in!

Think your wife will struggle,it is hard for us oldies sometimes to climb out and with the hood up nearly impossible !
Make sure the doors have the brackets fitted that keeps the door open.
Hope it goes ok

Try a swival seat ...where are you located Im sure one of us morgan folk could drop by and take you both for a short ride? Perhaps explain the whys and wherefores?

Getting in and out of a Morgan with the roof on is an entirely different experience to one with the roof off.... As with most things, the car also looks better with the top off too.

So I would advise choosing your test day - in terms of weather - is going to be vital.

Where abouts are you in the world? I am sure a local Morgan owner could let you have a few practice entrances to make it appear easy.

...and make sure that it's a long door model (late 1997 onwards according to Graham) as they are slightly easier for ingress and egress.

I like your use of spouse psychology on the "if I tell her she probably can't get in, she will be determined to prove me wrong."

Neil is bang on about the roof. Make sure it's a top-down day, as getting in and out with the roof up is a whole different level of contortionism.

I find the best way in, with the top down, is to treat it like a racing car - step in, standing on the crossbrace, and then slide down into the seat, reversing the process for exit. This avoids back strain.

Once in and underway you’ll find the ride is not particularly harsh. Morgan seats are surprisingly comfortable.

Where about in the UK are you