2016 Morgan AR V6

On its introduction in 2014, the AR V6 was the most powerful racing car that Morgan had ever sold and the ultimate race-prepared Morgan. Based on their 3.7-litre V6 Roadster, the AR V6 benefited from a range of track-focused enhancements and was the first-ever Morgan to feature 5-link rear suspension and a body with no doors, and a weight-saving heightened passenger side panel. Also aiming to reduce weight as much as possible, a lightened battery, brake system, split-billet wheels and interior were all utilised, ensuring a dry weight of 850kg. Technical enhancements included a digital dashboard display, a first for any Morgan, a 320bhp ECU with single mass flywheel and a modified timing chain tensioner resulting in a Marque-best, power to weight ratio of 376bhp per tonne.

Morgan’s motorsport division, AR Motorsport, were very bullish with press releases, stating the ARV6 “has been designed with one thing in mind – competing in motorsport and winning races. While offering performance and handling that goes beyond any Morgan-produced race car that has previously been available, AR Motorsport assures prospective buyers that the AR V6 will be ''the perfect Morgan race car for experienced racers and novices alike”

However, it wasn’t to be, as given its comprehensive specification, it simply wasn’t commercially viable. Only six were built and five of these remain in the UK.

Over recent years, several AR V6 have competed in the Morgan Challenge Series, now in its 42nd year, a one-make series featuring at circuits around the UK. The Challenge regularly attracts significant grids with Morgans racing in many classes. The competition is fierce, however the gentlemanly spirit of the series has earned a high level of respect amongst fellow motorsport enthusiasts.

This particular example was bought new by its current owner in 2016 and has been enjoyed with some success at various events over the years. Our vendor is particularly fastidious and we understand that has spent over £50,000 on further developing and upgrading the car following its delivery from Morgan, however it remains road-legal and has been supported and generally looked after by Richard Thorne, a respected specialist in competition and fast-road Morgans. As with any competition car, it’s recommended that prospective purchasers check the validity and currency of any safety-related equipment.

This AR V6 is undoubtedly the coolest Morgan racer on the planet and, given that only six were built globally at over £60,000 new, it would take a brave person to say no at this very sensible guide, considering the level of investment involved in preparing the car to this level.