My thoughts in addition to Chris':
The M3W is definitely something you can look after yourself and pretty much all of the issues are well known and have proven fixes.
Most are covered in this forum and once sorted out they are very usable and relatively reliable cars. Many owners do look after the cars themselves and there is a very useful Alternative Parts List curated by Planenut. The basics are engine and bevel box oil changes every 3,000 miles and replacing the cambelt every 10,000. Otherwise it's mainly keeping an eye on the nuts, bolts and suspension/steering joints.
Specifically with regards to the engine, whilst the S&S factory support has stopped there are still parts and some full engines around. MMC are beginning to get parts remanufactured, for example they now have full gasket sets. It's a pretty straightforward and unstressed engine and fundamental to the character of the car.
If you do need support then Craig at M3WServices is the goto guru and he can provide anything from an MOT and service to a full chassis off rebuild with new paint and interior. He can also provide an upgrade to the Centa drive unit to allow the rollers to be changed if required without having to take the engine out (This used to be known as a "Phil Bleazey conversion" but Phil has now retired).
See also
- Andrew Warren's M3W5speed buying guide and other resources on the MTWC website
- Peter Dron's book is also a good read for prospective owners
- Phil B's trials at reengineering parts of the M3W - a good read. For example the bevel box mount is something else to consider on M3Ws...
- Worth chatting to Craig at M3WServices (nr Swindon) as he may know of cars for sale outside the Morgan dealer network...
I agree with the sentiment that the Super 3 is just too wide - it won't fit in my 1930s garage for example. It also makes me sit too high and my preference of a full windshield is missing in action. Plus the idea of special tyres? It's almost a case study of how NOT to design a niche car! But as a 2nd or 3rd car in a rural setting it must be great fun...
While the M3W5speed doesn't have anything as archaic as a sliding pillar suspension and there are plenty of self service opportunities (check Phil's site above), it remains a better choice for me. Good luck with your selection!
