Morgan Motor Company, the iconic British manufacturer known for its handcrafted vehicles, has introduced the Supersport — a striking model that blends classic design with modern performance. The Supersport’s elegant, vintage-inspired styling immediately commands attention, making it almost hard to believe that beneath the surface lies a BMW powertrain.
In a bold move, Morgan named the Porsche 911 its direct competitor for the Supersport — an ambitious claim considering the 911’s legendary status in the sports car world. Morgan has reportedly made significant upgrades to the Supersport’s chassis, suggesting that the new model is designed to deliver exceptional cornering and driving dynamics.
A Legacy of Craftsmanship and Performance
Morgan Motor Company was founded in 1909. Since then, it has produced vehicles with unique designs and driving performance while adhering to traditional handcrafting methods. The Supersport, unveiled this time, is the latest model that embodies Morgan’s philosophy. It is encouraging that the price is around £100,000 ($125,000), similar to Porsche but slightly cheaper.
The Supersport combines classic design with modern technology. Its lightweight aluminum chassis and BMW B58 6-cylinder turbo engine, with 335 horsepower, are expected to provide powerful driving performance. In addition, the handcrafted interior offers both luxury and a unique sensibility. These elements show the brand value that Morgan pursues through the Supersport.
Inspired by Classic Sports Cars
The Supersport’s design evokes memories of distinctive roadsters from the past. Its long hood, low stance, and flowing lines resemble iconic models such as the Kalista and the La Seyde—two cars that, while not commercially successful, have left a lasting mark on automotive history.
- Kalista: Produced by Ssangyong Motors in the early 1990s using Panther Westwinds (UK) technology, the Kalista was known for its classic roadster styling and strong driving performance. Despite its appealing design, the model was short-lived.
- La Seyde: Produced by Japanese automaker Mitsuoka, the La Seyde was based on the Nissan Silvia and featured 1930s-inspired styling. Its rarity and distinctive design have made it a sought-after collectible among car enthusiasts.
By referencing these classic designs, Morgan reinforces Supersport’s connection to automotive history, adding modern engineering to enhance performance and drivability.
Exclusive Appeal with Lasting Impact
While these handcrafted sports cars have rarely achieved mainstream success, they have carved out a distinctive place in automotive history. The Morgan Supersport’s launch introduces a fresh option for drivers seeking individuality and performance, blending the legacy of classic sports cars with modern engineering.
Morgan’s approach with the Supersport reflects a balance of tradition and innovation, positioning it as a unique player in the luxury hand-built sports car market. Much like iconic sports cars of the past that have remained revered among enthusiasts, the Supersport has the potential to become a future classic. Morgan’s bold move to position the Supersport as a competitor to the Porsche 911 has piqued industry interest, raising expectations for how the brand’s latest creation will perform on and off the track.
