British boutique automaker Morgan is pivoting from its reputation for “quaint” retro charm toward serious performance. The company has officially revealed the Supersport 400, a more potent evolution of its flagship Supersport model and the most powerful production vehicle in Morgan’s history.
A Powerhouse Under the Hood
At the heart of this new machine is a high-performance engine sourced from BMW. The Supersport 400 utilizes the 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six (B58), a versatile engine family known for powering everything from the Toyota Supra to the BMW M340i.
By tuning this powerplant, Morgan has achieved significant performance gains:
– Horsepower: 402 hp (a 67-hp increase over the standard Supersport).
– Torque: 369 lb-ft.
– Transmission: A ZF eight-speed automatic gearbox sending power to the rear wheels.
– Soundtrack: A newly developed high-flow performance exhaust designed to provide a more “purposeful” acoustic experience.
Engineering for Speed and Control
The Supersport 400 isn’t just about raw power; it is engineered to manage that energy through weight reduction and advanced suspension. With a claimed curb weight of approximately 2,579 pounds, the car is exceptionally light for its power class.
To ensure the driver can harness this power effectively, Morgan has integrated several performance-oriented features:
* Dynamic Handling Package: Standard on this model, it includes adjustable front and rear Nitron dampers and reworked suspension geometry to improve stability and driver feedback.
* Traction Management: An optional limited-slip differential is available to improve cornering grip.
* Aerodynamics: New front wing vents have been added to optimize airflow.
These technical upgrades transform the car from a stylish cruiser into a legitimate performance machine capable of reaching 62 mph in just 3.6 seconds and hitting a top speed of 180 mph.
Merging Retro Aesthetics with Modern Luxury
Visually, the Supersport 400 maintains the “steampunk” aesthetic that defines the modern Morgan brand—blending classic, old-school bodywork with contemporary engineering. However, subtle details distinguish it from the standard model, such as gloss-finished lower body trim replacing the usual satin gray.
The interior has also seen refinements to better match the car’s premium ambitions:
– Enhanced Materials: Drivers can opt for leather paired with Alcantara.
– Custom Details: Unique stitching patterns appear on the seats, doors, and transmission tunnel, complemented by bespoke dashboard dials.
– Tactile Upgrades: An optional aluminum gearshift knob is available to replace the standard plastic unit, ensuring the cockpit feels cohesive and high-end.
Market Availability and Future Outlook
While production is scheduled to begin in May, the Supersport 400 will not be available in the United States, where Morgan currently limits its lineup to the Plus Four and Super 3.
This release marks a strategic shift for the manufacturer. Morgan has indicated that the Supersport 400 is merely the beginning of a new chapter, with a series of bespoke and limited-run special editions expected over the next 18 months.
The Supersport 400 represents Morgan’s transition from a manufacturer of nostalgic classics to a serious contender in the high-performance sports car market.
