British automaker Morgan has officially revealed the Supersport 400, marking a significant milestone as the most powerful model in the company’s history. The vehicle represents a sophisticated balancing act: it maintains the classic “olde worlde” aesthetic Morgan is famous for, while utilizing high-performance modern engineering to push its performance boundaries.
Enhanced Performance and Engineering
At the heart of the Supersport 400 is an upgraded version of the BMW ‘B58’ 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-six petrol engine. While the standard Supersport model delivers 250kW, the new “400” variant has been tuned to produce 300kW (approximately 402hp) and 500Nm of torque.
This increase in power is managed by a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission, sending drive exclusively to the rear wheels. Because the car is built on a bonded aluminium platform, it remains incredibly light, weighing just 1,170kg. This power-to-weight ratio results in impressive performance metrics:
– 0–100km/h sprint: 3.6 seconds (improving upon the standard model by 0.2 seconds).
– Top speed: 290km/h (an increase of 23km/h).
To complement the increased speed, Morgan has introduced a new high-flow active exhaust system designed to provide a “pronounced and purposeful” engine note without sacrificing refinement.
Precision Handling and Design
With more power comes the need for better control. To manage the increased output, the Supersport 400 includes a standard Dynamic Handling Pack. This package features:
– Adjustable Nitron dampers with 24 levels of adjustment.
– Revised suspension tuning for improved stability.
– 19-inch forged Sportlite alloy wheels (available in silver or dark bronze) wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 5 tyres.
Visually, the 400 distinguishes itself through subtle aerodynamic and stylistic updates. These include vents atop the front wheel arches and a glossy satin grey finish on the lower body. Customers can choose from a new palette of colors, including Forged Grey, Silk Silver, Sail Silver, and Horizon Blue.
A Bespoke Interior Experience
Inside the cabin, Morgan continues its tradition of craftsmanship with several new customization options. While leather remains the standard, the company is introducing faux suede alternatives, allowing for single-tone, dual-tone, or mixed leather-and-suede finishes. The interior also features a unique stitch pattern applied to the doors, seats, and transmission tunnel. For those seeking extra flair, optional coral accents are available for the exterior graphics, brake calipers, and cabin marquetry veneers.
Availability and Pricing
Production for the Supersport 400 is scheduled to commence in May. In the United Kingdom, pricing starts at £112,965 (excluding taxes and on-road costs). While the model is set to arrive in Europe soon, its availability in the Australian market has not yet been confirmed.
The Supersport 400 demonstrates Morgan’s ability to evolve; by pairing a lightweight, traditional chassis with a highly tuned BMW powertrain, they are successfully transitioning from a niche heritage brand to a serious contender in the high-performance sports car market.
In summary, the Morgan Supersport 400 is a significant leap forward for the brand, offering unprecedented power and refined handling while staying true to its iconic British design roots.
