1958 Morgan Plus 4

THE MODEL

The 1958 Morgan Plus 4 is a quintessential example of British sports car design, a hand-crafted gem that combines classic styling with spirited performance. It was produced during the golden era of Morgan’s craftsmanship, where the company was still building its cars primarily using the traditional methods of wood and steel, giving the Plus 4 its distinctive character.

Engine and Performance: Under the bonnet, the 1958 Plus 4 was powered by a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine sourced from Triumph’s TR3A, producing around 90 horsepower. This was mated to a four-speed manual gearbox, giving the car a lively driving experience. The engine was capable of pushing the Plus 4 to a top speed of around 100 mph, which was quite respectable for the time. With the relatively lightweight design (weighing just over 800 kg), the Plus 4 delivered excellent handling, especially through tight corners, thanks to its rear-wheel-drive configuration and independent front suspension, along with the iconic Morgan live rear axle.

Chassis and Construction: The chassis of the 1958 Plus 4 was built using Morgan’s traditional ash wood frame, an aspect that gives the car a level of resilience and craftsmanship that was unique to the brand. The body was made of aluminum panels that were hand-beaten and fitted by skilled craftsmen. This method of construction contributed to the car’s lightweight design while maintaining the structural integrity needed for spirited driving.

The 1958 Morgan Plus 4 was a true driver’s car, offering excellent feedback through the steering and pedals. Its relatively stiff suspension, though harsh over rough surfaces, provided a taut and responsive ride on smooth roads. The car’s low weight and compact size made it incredibly agile, while the 4-speed gearbox required precise gear changes, keeping the driver engaged. The braking system, while adequate for the time, was operated with mechanical drums, meaning it required skill and anticipation from the driver.

Legacy: The 1958 Morgan Plus 4 was a major step in the evolution of the Morgan brand, offering a balance of tradition and performance that would continue to define the company’s cars for decades. Though the model was produced in relatively small numbers, it cemented Morgan’s reputation for making cars that appealed to enthusiasts who valued craftsmanship, simplicity, and driving pleasure. For collectors today, the 1958 Morgan Plus 4 represents an accessible, yet iconic, part of automotive history, and an example of the enduring appeal of Morgan’s traditional design ethos.

In short, the 1958 Morgan Plus 4 is a timeless classic, a perfect blend of vintage British motoring and a joyful driving experience that continues to be celebrated by enthusiasts worldwide.

THIS CAR

We have known California ownership of this car from the 1990's when it was the subject of a restoration and painted in that lovely Brooklands green with black fenders and running boards.  We have an album from the restoration and invoices going back to that time.  It features a newer top, roof braces and tonneau cover.

The engine has been upgraded with tubular headers, an aluminum radiator, an electric fuels pump and a gear reduction starter.  The carberators were rebuilt in 2018.

The current owner purchased this a COVID daliance and they have enjoyed it from 2021, taking it on trips from the San Francisco Bay Area down to the Monterey Peninsula. 

This is a great example of an iconic car that turns heads wherever it goes!

COMING SOON!

Email ingo@genauautowerks.com

or call 415.730.5352 for more information