Image of 1952 Morgan Plus Four, sourced from www.charlescrail.com , Image Link.

1952 Morgan Plus Four: A Timeless British Sports Car

The 1952 Morgan Plus Four represents an era when driving was as much about passion as it was about transportation. Born in the post-war period, a time of innovation and rebuilding, the Plus Four emerged from the esteemed Morgan Motor Company, a British automaker known for its hand-built vehicles and traditional craftsmanship. This classic sports car not only captured the hearts of enthusiasts during its heyday but continues to be a cherished icon among collectors today. A testament to its enduring appeal is the fact that it was produced for an impressive 26 years, from 1950 to 1969, with only minor changes to its original formula.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1952 Morgan Plus Four is a study in timeless design, featuring flowing fenders, a long bonnet, and a distinctive grille that instantly identifies it as a Morgan. The car's bodywork was primarily constructed from aluminum panels over an ash wood frame, showcasing a blend of materials that was both traditional and innovative for its time. Inside, the Plus Four offered a no-frills experience with an emphasis on driver engagement. Leather seats and a simple dashboard layout with essential gauges spoke to the vehicle's sports car ethos. Technologically, the Plus Four was ahead of many contemporaries with its independent front suspension and a robust four-cylinder engine sourced from Standard Motor Company. Color options ranged from deep British Racing Green to vibrant reds, with black and cream also being popular choices among buyers. The roadster body style is perhaps the most iconic, though coupé and four-seater versions were also available.

Historical Significance

The Morgan Plus Four's impact on automotive design is subtle yet significant. It upheld the tradition of open-top motoring while providing performance that could rival more expensive sports cars of its time. Its hand-built nature and use of wood in construction were seen as charmingly anachronistic even then but contributed to its unique character that set it apart from mass-produced vehicles.

Performance and Handling

Performance-wise, the 1952 Morgan Plus Four impressed with agility rather than outright speed. While top speed figures hovered around 85 mph, it was the car's acceleration—capable of reaching 0-60 mph in under 10 seconds—that delighted drivers. Handling was direct and engaging; drivers could feel every nuance of the road through the steering wheel and seat. The driving experience was visceral: the roar of the engine, wind in your hair, and the tactile feedback from every gear shift created an intimate bond between car and driver.

Ownership Experience

Owners of the 1952 Morgan Plus Four typically used their cars for weekend drives, club events, or even amateur racing. Maintenance could be managed by those with mechanical knowledge since the car's straightforward design made repairs relatively accessible. However, sourcing parts for such a niche vehicle sometimes posed challenges.

Fun Facts

A few fun facts about this classic: Some Morgan Plus Fours were fitted with Triumph TR engines which added extra pep to their performance. Celebrity ownership has helped maintain interest in Morgans over the years; notable figures like actor David Niven were known to drive them. While not record-breakers in terms of speed or sales, their endurance is notable; many Morgans have successfully completed long-distance rallies and tours.

Collector's Information

Today, a 1952 Morgan Plus Four can fetch anywhere from $30,000 to $60,000 depending on condition and provenance. Approximately 4,584 units were produced during its entire run (including all variants), making it relatively rare but not exceedingly so. The market for Morgans has been stable with a slight appreciation in value over time due to their timeless appeal and loyal following.

Conclusion

The 1952 Morgan Plus Four is more than just a classic sports car; it's a piece of motoring history that continues to captivate enthusiasts around the world. Its combination of traditional craftsmanship, engaging driving dynamics, and timeless design ensures that it remains as desirable today as it was over half a century ago.

1952 Morgan Plus Four Windshield Post Pads. 4-3/4" wide X 4-1/8" long. Pair R&L-MP 1012-AWindshield Post Pads. 4-3/4" wide X 4-1/8" long. Pair R&L

1952 Morgan Plus Four Door Handle Pads. For all models with outside door handles-MP 1012-DDoor Handle Pads. For all models with outside door handles. 1-3/8" wide X 2-3/8" long. Pair

1952 Morgan Plus Four Steering Column Grommet. 1/2" I.D., 2-1/2" O.D. Each-SC 20Steering Column Grommet. 1/2" I.D., 2-1/2" O.D. Each