Morgan Plus 8 Series 1–6 (1968-2004) reliability
Morgan Plus 8 Series 1–6 built before 2000: fails its MOT less often than average
Morgan Plus 8 Series 1–6 models built before 2000 fail their MOT less often than similar cars the same age. An independent inspection matters more than the wider numbers on cars this old.
Looking at a Morgan Plus 8 Series 1–6?
Enter its number plate to see its full MOT history, risk rating and running costs.
Key figure
12% of MOT tests on Morgan Plus 8 Series 1–6 models built before 2000 ended in a fail (retests included), against 22% for similar cars the same age.
Most common issue
The most common MOT issue on Morgan Plus 8 Series 1–6 models built before 2000 involves fluid leaks.
Based on 668 tests of Plus 8 models registered 1968-2004.
About 1 in 20 Plus 8 Series 1–6 MOTs (4.8%) failed and still hadn't passed 3 days later. That's for cars built before 2000 (over 25 years old), all fuels combined.
Based on 547 tests (DVSA MOT results, 2025), a small sample, so the figure is likely between 3.3% and 6.9%. A fail that passed a retest within 3 days, even the same day, isn't counted. Nor is a fail with no later MOT on record.
About 1 in 50 Plus 8 Series 1–6 MOTs (2%) found at least one dangerous defect. These are cars built before 2000 (over 25 years old).
Based on 547 tests (DVSA MOT results, 2025), a small sample, so the figure is likely between 1.1% and 3.6%. Dangerous is the most serious grade an MOT gives: a direct risk to road safety.
Series 1–6 fail rate by age
Fail rate is the share of MOT tests that ended in a fail. Retests count as tests. How we count fail rates Build years are worked out from age, so they are approximate. Tests counted are 2025 MOTs. Highest fail rate at 25+ years old.
How the Plus 8 Series 1–6 compares
At each age below, see how the Plus 8 Series 1–6 holds up against other cars the same age. The averages combine all fuel types.
Based on 1,995 tests across 3 Morgan models, built before 2000 (over 25 years old).
Fail rate is the share of MOT tests that ended in a fail. Retests count as tests. How we count fail rates Build years are worked out from age, so they are approximate. Tests counted are 2025 MOTs.
What to check before viewing
The model's most common MOT issues, turned into things you can ask about or look for.
Leaks
Worth checkingInspect the leaks carefully and ask the seller for repair history.
Brakes
Worth checkingInspect the brakes carefully and ask the seller for repair history.
Axles & Wheels
Worth checkingInspect the axles & wheels carefully and ask the seller for repair history.
Tyres
Worth checkingCheck tread depth across the full width on all four; uneven wear suggests alignment or suspension issues.
Exhaust
Worth checkingListen for blow noises from a cold start; check for rust and leaks at the manifold and cat connections.
Vehicle-specific check
Worth checkingCheck the car’s number plate on MOT Wise to see its own MOT history and any recalls for its build years.
Other convertibles to compare
Other convertibles, with each one's figures taken at the same age as the Plus 8 Series 1–6.
- 1
Mercedes-Benz SL
Same body type, tested at the same age
- Fail rate
- 17.1%
- Still registered at 10 years
- 90.5%
No clear edge over the Morgan Plus 8 Series 1–6 on these figures.
Some figures could not be compared for these two cars. So this comparison uses the fail rate and recalls only.
5,842 MOT tests on cars built before 2000
- 2
Mazda MX-5
Same body type, tested at the same age
- Fail rate
- 27.2%
- Still registered at 10 years
- 97.6%
No clear edge over the Morgan Plus 8 Series 1–6 on these figures.
2 critical recall campaigns matching this model/build period.
16,460 MOT tests on cars built before 2000
- 3
MG B
Same body type, tested at the same age
- Fail rate
- 15.5%
No clear edge over the Morgan Plus 8 Series 1–6 on these figures.
Some figures could not be compared for these two cars. So this comparison uses the fail rate and recalls only.
2,865 MOT tests on cars built before 2000
- 4
Alfa Romeo Spider
Same body type, tested at the same age
- Fail rate
- 25.8%
No clear edge over the Morgan Plus 8 Series 1–6 on these figures.
Some figures could not be compared for these two cars. So this comparison uses the fail rate and recalls only.
1,562 MOT tests on cars built before 2000
- Fail rate
- = the share of MOT tests that ended in a fail. Retests count as tests.
- Still registered at 10 years
- = the share of cars still registered (taxed or declared off the road) 10 years after they were first registered.
Recall context
DVSA's recall list has no recalls filed under the Morgan Plus 8 name. For the exact car, check with the maker or GOV.UK's recall checker.
What has gone wrong on Plus 8 Series 1–6 cars built before 2000
The share of petrol cars that have ever failed an MOT on each part of the car. Based on 106 cars.
Rust, which the MOT calls corrosion: 8% of these cars show rust-related issues at this age.
Check the sills, subframe and brake pipes before you decide.
Most common issues on Morgan Plus 8 models of this age
This list covers every Morgan Plus 8 built before 2000, whichever generation it is. We don't have a defect list for the Series 1–6 on its own.
Most common advisories and fails
In order of the share of MOT tests that recorded each one
- 18.6%Advisory
Oil leak, but not excessive
- 22.9%Advisory
Brake binding slightly
- 32.6%Advisory
Wheel bearing has slight play
- 42.4%Advisory
Exhaust has a minor leak
- 52.0%Major
Track rod end dust cover damaged and no longer keeps dirt out
Based on 547 tests
Looking at a Morgan Plus 8 Series 1–6?
Enter its number plate to see its full MOT history, risk rating and running costs.
Frequently asked questions
Built before 2000 (over 25 years old), the Morgan Plus 8 Series 1–6 (1968-2004) fails MOTs noticeably less often than typical for this age. This is based on 547 25+ year old MOT tests from DVSA data. Each retest counts as a test.