Bargain Potential? 1966 Morgan 4/4

In an era when progress marches forward without regard for whether the previous way of doing things needed improvement, the Morgan roadster reminds us why some traditions have endured. In the case of cars like this 1966 4/4, it is proof that a formula doesn’t always need to be changed purely in the pursuit of “better.” While the Morgan certainly has its shortcomings, the reason enthusiasts still love them and lavish them with upgrades and repairs is that it stands as a reminder that we don’t always need to fix what isn’t broken. Find this Morgan here on eBay with an opening bid of $8,000 and no bids yet.

Of course, you have to love this sort of driving experience to justify some of the shortcomings. But we all live with such things in any car that has some years under its wheels. Heck, the European vehicles from the 80s and 90s that I love have abysmal air conditioning systems, even when working perfectly. The electronics are often wonky, with door locks and power window motors slowing down or simply not working. The Morgan obviously hails from a different era with no creature comforts to speak of and when ride quality was an afterthought – just be glad it’s still running! Speaking of, the seller notes in his short listing description that the Morgan is powered by a 2L engine from a Ford Cortina that has been recently rebuilt.

There’s a lot of style and class in this photo, and it’s the kind of panache that represents a bygone era. I think of the Austin-Healeys and MGAs in much the same way – there’s a grace and presence about these cars that is near unrepeatable. Factor in classic analog gauges, the bus-like steering wheel, the minimalist interior coverings (notice there’s no dash pad of any kind), and seating that offers little in the way of adjustability and you immediately understand that the driver has to conform to the Morgan, not the other way around. Like many sports models, you either love it or you hate it, and there’s little middle ground.

The 4/4 is a more basic model, as the Super Sport is the high-zoot version (but very hard to find and pricey). In stock form, this Morgan likely had a 1.5L Ford “Kent” engine, producing a humble 65 b.h.p. and 88 lb.-ft. of torque. Now, that number likely isn’t accurate, based on the seller’s mention of it having a larger engine from a Cortina, which was apparently rebuilt before going up for sale. If we’ve got the details right, it should produce right around 100 b.h.p. and 113 lb.-ft. of torque. If you decide to bid on this Morgan, be sure to check out this other listing here on eBay for a small lot of spare parts.