The Morgan Threewheeler is returning to the roads, 58 years after production of the original version ceased.
Due to go on sale in 2011, the new car will be powered by a 1,800 cc Harley-Davidson V-twin with around 100 bhp (74 kW / 101 PS), connected to a Mazda five-speed transmission. That should be enough to accelerate the 500 kg lightweight from 0-60 mph (96 km/h) in 4.5 seconds, before taking it onto a top speed of a windy 115 mph (185 km/h) - flying goggles might be a good idea.
The Threewheeler is constructed from super formed aluminium bodywork over a tubular steel chassis frame. Additional protection is provided by individual rollover hoops behind the driver and passenger seats, but there’s no hood to keep the weather off.
Aviation clearly provided the inspiration for the design of the cockpit, which features a black anodised dash panel, aluminium 'aircraft' toggle switches and a 'bomb release' style starter button.
In the UK at least, the Morgan Threewheeler will be homologated as a motorcycle. That means anyone who holds a bike licence will be able to drive it.
Pricing is yet to be confirmed, but Morgan is saying that the first batch of cars will be built to a ‘standard’ specification. These will be available in a choice of eight paint colours, together with black or tan leather for the interior. After that, customers will be able to order more bespoke versions.
