The 2022 Morgan Super 3 is the British carmaker's latest model. It's a successor to the even more old-school, Morgan 3-wheeler, which in turn harkens back to the 1932 Morgan F Series 3-wheeler. While the Morgan 3-wheeler is rightfully described (by Morgan) as a rebellion against sanitized, modern motoring, the Super 3 scores a degree of modernism, lacking in its forbearers. That said, there are still plenty of aspects about the Super 3 that make it the epitome of old-school motoring, and here’s what they are.

It's very Lightweight

Lightness is almost something that goes without saying when talking about any Morgan car, but the Morgan Super 3 is one of the lightest cars the brand has ever made. This is the first three-wheeler Morgan that features the company’s new aluminum chassis with bonded-aluminum monocoque.

In times of tech-heavy cars, lightness is, more than ever, associated with old-school motoring. The Morgan Super 3 tips the scales at just 1,400 pounds (635 kg). While this is more than its predecessor’s 1,212-pound (550 kg) figure, the Super 3 is still one of the brand’s lightest vehicles.

Simplicity

The Morgan Super 3 is, by no means, a complicated car. In true Morgan tradition, the three-wheeled speedster is relatively analog, aside from the digital gauge cluster and USB sockets. The engine is also a naturally-aspirated, 1.5-liter Ford inline-three unit that makes 118 horsepower at 6,500 RPM and 110 pound-feet (149 Nm) at 4,500 RPM. This is, actually, the EcoBoost engine from the Mk IV Ford Focus, but without the turbocharger.

You won't find any smart differentials, adaptive suspension, or torque-vectoring here. Power is sent to the single, rear wheel through an old-school, five-speed manual transmission from a Mazda MX-5, which connects to a special bevel box, mounted in front of the trailing arm.

Exposed mechanicals

Engineering that can be seen is like a wet dream for old-school and DIY enthusiasts. While the Morgan Super 3 is a bit more “shy” than its predecessor, the 3-wheeler, which has an exposed, air-cooled, V-twin engine, still shows a lot more than any other modern car.

While the engine is entirely hidden under the Super 3’s bodywork, we still see the entire front suspension, which is an independent, coil-sprung, pushrod setup. The brake system is also visible, as are the retro-inspired wheels, specially developed with Avon.

Open-top thrills

Like its predecessor, the 3-wheeler P101, the Morgan Super 3 is a “no frills all thrills” machine. While more sophisticated than the previous model, the Super 3 still offers an unadulterated, vintage driving experience, thanks to its open cockpit and low silhouette. The design of the split windshield is a throwback to a version of the 1932 F series Morgan 3-wheeler. The most important thing in the Super 3 is that no matter what, you are fully exposed to the elements.

Outboard luggage racks

The 2022 Morgan Super 3 is as minimalistic as a car can be. While it takes the traditional, British lightweight roadster to a whole new level, the Super 3 is still built with some practicality in mind. Just like early automobiles, the lightweight Morgan features exterior racks meant for outboard luggage, similar to what a motorcycle would have. It is worth noting that this is a trait Morgan has kept over the years. The Super 3 is also the first Morgan 3-wheeler to feature cup-holders.

Styled after a World War 2 airplane

The Morgan 3-wheeler’s design was inspired by World War 2 airplanes, and since the Super 3 is an almost identical-looking successor to the 3-wheeler, the same goes for it. The minimalistic design and streamlined bullet shape closely resemble that of the Spitfire or P-51 Mustang, for those across the pond.

The only thing lacking on the Super 3 is the military graphics that were featured on the 3-wheeler. The Super 3’s rounded front hood almost suggests there’s a radial engine under it, just like on a Dragonfly or a Mosquito airplane.

Is the Super 3 a proper Morgan?

Out of all carmakers currently in existence, Morgan seems to be one of the most hell-bent on tradition. Until eight years ago, the company was still using ash wood to make the chassis of its cars. While the Super 3, like other Morgan models, features a certain degree of modernism in its design, it’s still true to its roots. It’s still a “no-frills all thrills” rebellion against sanitized, modern motoring. It's a sophisticated middle finger to normal commuting, instead of a thrill from the drive and for that, we love it, even if it starts from $70,000.