2022model Morgan Plus Four – 1962 Edition

The Morgan Motor Company, a venerable British marque with a history spanning more than a century, produced the “LM62… known domestically as the 1962 Edition” in 2022 to commemorate the 60th anniversary of its victory in the 2-liter class at the 1962 24 Hours of Le Mans. This special model was limited to just 62 units worldwide, of which five 6-speed manual cars and five automatic cars were officially released in Japan through the authorized importer, Morgan Cars Japan.

Dressed in Dark Green—the de facto works color that symbolized Morgan’s racing efforts of the era—the 1962 Edition standing quietly before me is one of only five manual-transmission cars delivered to Japan, making it an exceptionally rare example. Its appearance clearly sets it apart from the standard Plus Four.

With its aggressive looks reminiscent of a classic racing car reborn in the modern age, this Morgan exudes an aura that will unquestionably stir the emotions of any car enthusiast. Seen up close, its presence is undeniably special.

From the lower edge of the front fenders to beneath the chin, a front splitter designed to actively improve cooling—essential for transforming the classic Plus Four into a race-ready machine—can be seen, while large auxiliary lamps further accentuate the dynamic front face. From there, the beautifully restrained lines of the side sills and steps flow seamlessly toward the rear, culminating in a domed rear panel that deletes the spare wheel altogether—pure race-car form—crowned by a massive Aston-type racing fuel filler cap.

The sight of this Dark Green body (officially named Jet Green) adorned with the vivid number “29” is truly something special. It is a direct homage to the legendary number 29 “TOK 258,” which conquered the 2-liter class at the 1962 24 Hours of Le Mans—an icon that remains deeply meaningful to Morgan enthusiasts around the world. The more one understands the significance of this car, the harder it becomes to remain indifferent.

Le Mans, 1962.
Morgan works driver Christopher Lawrence—who fully understood the advantages of Morgan’s traditional ladder chassis and ash-framed body, robust yet capable of flex—carried the number 29. At the time, the Circuit de la Sarthe was little more than an extension of public roads, with virtually no night lighting. In the darkness, only headlights and auxiliary lamps pierced the night, while road joints and undulations transmitted brutal loads directly to the cars. It was a truly chaotic and unforgiving endurance race, almost unimaginable by today’s standards.

Under such conditions, Morgan Works took on the era’s most advanced manufacturers—Porsche with its aerodynamic superiority and ample resources, as well as Alfa Romeo and Lotus—head on. The Morgan Plus 4 Super Sports (TOK 258), powered by a 1,991cc OHV inline-four engine as used in the Triumph TR3, retained its traditional ash-framed ladder chassis, wore a hardtop yet remained fundamentally an open car, and ran without any flamboyant aerodynamic devices. With this remarkably simple configuration, it endured the full 24 hours and emerged victorious in the 2.0-liter class.

This was the moment when TOK 258, bearing the number 29, etched its name into Le Mans history—proof that faith in Morgan’s philosophy and construction could prevail on the world stage.

The 2022 Morgan Plus Four 1962 Edition is an officially conceived and produced factory model created by Morgan Motor Company to commemorate the 60th anniversary of that 1962 Le Mans 2.0-liter class victory. Although based on the latest Plus Four, its detailed specifications clearly distinguish it from the standard model, inevitably drawing attention. Let us take a closer look at the car before us—serial number 7 of 10 for Japan, with just 1,356 km on the odometer and still radiating the brilliance of a nearly new vehicle.

First, the exclusive exterior features of the 1962 Edition are immediately apparent. The body is finished in Dark Green (officially Jet Green), exactly matching the livery of the 1962 works car TOK 258, and is adorned with exclusive graphics such as the roundels bearing the number “29.” Even the domed rear panel without a spare tire is a direct reflection of TOK 258’s design. All of these elements are unique, purpose-built features inspired by the original car.

Further enhancing the period atmosphere, the 1962 Edition is equipped with polished wire wheels like those of TOK 258, a large Aston-type fuel filler cap, driving spotlights, and black-finished splitters and cowl mesh—details that vividly bring the world of 1962 to life.

Turning to the interior, which still carries the scent of a new car, the 1962 Edition is equally special. The eye is immediately drawn to the dedicated metal plate on the dashboard bearing the unique build number “7/10,” exclusive to the 1962 Edition.

Complementing the superb material quality of the interior, this model comes standard with black leather Comfort Plus seats. Their horizontally pleated design evokes 1960s racing cars, yet the center sections are perforated and incorporate seat heaters—modern touches clearly intended for real-world use. Visually classic, yet surprisingly comfortable over long distances, these seats eloquently demonstrate that the 1962 Edition is not merely a commemorative model, but a “Le Mans homage built to be driven today.” The simple, Morgan-esque headrests are embroidered with exclusive 1962 Edition logos, while the beautifully finished tawny wood center tunnel and dashboard create a mature, refined atmosphere that complements the modern interior.

And then—at the heart of this 1962 Edition—lies the source of its dynamic, exhilarating performance: a BMW-sourced B48 2.0-liter inline-four turbocharged engine.

In stark contrast to Morgan’s long-cultivated classic aesthetic, the mechanicals are thoroughly modern. Delivering immense torque from low revs, the engine propels the lightweight 1,080 kg body forward effortlessly with even the slightest press of the accelerator.

Simply put, this Morgan is fast—remarkably so. Its astonishingly dynamic acceleration will surprise even seasoned enthusiasts accustomed to quick cars. Despite being turbocharged, its delivery is never abrupt; instead, it offers a smoothness reminiscent of a naturally aspirated engine, with a depth of performance that allows effortless acceleration at any time—far exceeding expectations set by its classic appearance. This perfectly illustrates both the excellence of BMW’s B48 engine and its superb pairing with Morgan’s lightweight chassis.

This engine is not merely about peak power figures. Combined with Morgan’s traditional ladder chassis and robust ash-framed body, the subjective sensation of acceleration is razor-sharp and thrilling. Moreover, fully unleashing the appeal of the B48 engine is the Getrag 6-speed manual transmission—one of only five in Japan. Its short-throw action is exceptional, delivering a driving experience so refined that it defies the car’s classic looks, leaving a lasting impression of modern engineering excellence.

Looking at the chassis, Morgan’s traditional construction philosophy lives on. A steel ladder frame paired with an ash-wood body structure—this “flexing” characteristic is not mere nostalgia, but a rational design that skillfully absorbs road inputs. Combined with modern suspension, it filters out unnecessary harshness while still clearly communicating road conditions to the driver. This unique ride quality, truly understood only once experienced, is unlike that of any other sports car—an unmistakably Morgan world of its own.

Finally, the condition of the underbody deserves special mention. As the mere 1,356 km mileage suggests, everything from the frame and suspension arms to individual bolts remains exceptionally clean. There is no sign of road damage or corrosion, and the car unmistakably retains the feel of its near-new state.

This 1962 Edition was chosen by an enthusiast owner and has been cherished as such—carefully used, meticulously stored, and always treated with respect. More than just a limited edition, this car stands as a highly accomplished “craft work by Morgan,” a fact that leaves a powerful impression the longer one spends in its presence.