Showdown: Aston Martin V8 Vantage S vs. Morgan Aero Coupe - CAR and DRIVER

We take a look at two of Britain's finest super coupes, the Aston Martin V8 Vantage S vs. the Morgan Aero Coupe on the latest episode of Car and Driver: Abroad.
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[@zzz7zzz9]

the morgan's styling makes the aston look like a vw.

[@siraff4461]

Want to know which one is best? Count how many times he smiles in each.

[@BentleyMulsanneII]

That Morgan makes the Aston Martin look as uninspiring as a Corolla. If I become rich a Morgan will be the first thing I buy. It's the most special car this side of the Alfa 8C.

[@ARDEN440i]

Really? Can't stand the looks of a Morgan. The side and rear are ok but the front..

[@BentleyMulsanneII]

MOPAR Or No Car I think so, especially the interior, not to mention how it's made.

[@JustinCrediblename]

MOPAR Or No Car / ABRAMS Or No Tank I love the Morgan's looks as well.

[@samlawts1193]

You're an idiot

[@Miller473]

Shockbladez 101 If you don't have anything useful to add to this conversation, don't say anything at all.

[@shinnyspace]

It's interesting how much attention bring Morgan cars on the street. Last time I saw one English green Morgan 4 on the street, everyone wanted to be close to it, people were overtaking one and another just to be the first and closest to it, it's so special with the 30's looks and the spike wheel on the back bonnet. Like no today car. Even Bugatti or Ferrari wouldn't incite so much attention

[@HEKTIC458]

That Morgan is a beautiful car

[@adriannippy]

The Morgan is gorgeous . Even Batman will think so when he drives one through Gotham City .

[@williamm6888]

this was beautifully done. Today I was working with my grandfather on a +4 1960 Classic morgan and it was great. Love these cars and they are heavily underrated in the states.

[@dlyon9673]

It's amusing how the driver was laughing and smiling and thoroughly enjoying himself in the Morgan, while he looked like he was taking an accounting exam in the Aston.

[@Dr.TJ_Eckleburg]

I'm sure the Morgan is a blast to throw around the track a few times, but no normal human with $140k to spend in the real world is going to choose it over an Aston Martin. It's just not happening. If you're extremely wealthy and have a sizable collection and want to add a Morgan to it, then sure. But if you're just looking for something exotic and usable for second or third car (which is probably 90% of buyers at this price point), the Morgan is just not going to fit the bill unless you're VERY eccentric and need something to announce that fact to the world.

[@Phaeton1968]

@@Dr.TJ_Eckleburg Could not disagree more. I'm neither extremely wealthy, nor a collector, but I am looking for something different as a third/fourth occasional car and there is no way I'm buying an Aston or even a Bentley. In fact I'm on the brink of buying one of these. Its unique to look at, has the air of Morgan/vintage but scented modern, is way more rare than an Aston (I don't think I've ever seen an Aero 8 on the road in over 500k road miles since it launched) will hold value much better and I won't get stiffed on servicing either. It's also less of a target for thieves and doesn't inspire wealth envy like the way Aston's do either. Buying an Aston seems way more eccentric, extravagant even. I have other cars for practicality and passengers and they are faster too, on paper at least, and all very different from the Aero 8 which is exactly why its so appealing. Oh... and having spoken to a few Aston owners, its likely more reliable and definitely cheaper to fix when it isn't. Rather than your opinion that "It's just not happening" I can categorically say you are 100% incorrect.

[@andrewc6863]

The Morgan has 1000% more character.

[@meyawabdulaziz3863]

Grizzly Adams ayy.....have you heared that thing passing by while high revving the engine ?.....what a beautiful sound...i would drive that thing everyday

[@Wolfenkuni]

Grizzly Adams I agree but not because the Aston has no Character but because the Aston is the only one that would still be on a the scale with the Morgan. The only other thing that might be in between is an Alfa.

[@samlawts1193]

Wow aha you have no idea

[@a11car17]

👍

[@AminTheMystic]

+Grizzly Adams It looks Old fashioned - this does NOT equate to more character.

[@DreamCarGarage1]

...yes but just look at the thing! I'm really not gonna take either of these to a track and neither are the lucky owners. So, for a car to be seen in, makes the biggest impact on arrival, has the most drama, and can still boot it down a road on a Sunday morning blast, then for me it has to be the spectacular Morgan. By comparison the Aston looks positively ordinary and let's face it there are not many cars in production that can change the beautiful V8 Vantage into a 'wall flower'.

[@googlereviewer1944]

Brilliant roadtest video. Jethro is such a good writer and reviewer.

[@jamesellsworth9673]

Thank you for filming an entertaining comparison with these two driving machines. Both cars are interesting by themselves, so this was double the fun!

[@Frost517]

Give me the Morgan any day :)

[@bolderiks]

Nice Aston but every rich bastard will buy it some day. The Morgan on the other hand... only real gentlement's with a hint of mistic can match the carma of the Aero.

[@thomaskerby1304]

bolderiks Always wanted to live in a Tin Tin strip.

[@HenryPerez_royal_hp]

good god, that Morgan sounds FANTASTIC!

[@anthonyconerly3420]

The exhaust note on the Morgan is like getting a bass massage by a high end speaker system. It fits the wood and leather elements of the car perfectly.

[@KreKeriS911]

This guy makes videos so good.

[@CilVine]

I really, really, appreciate companies like Morgan, that are not afraid of developing their own design ethos. It is companies like this, that just make the automotive scene interesting. Particularly, when, nowadays, the only way you can tell cars apart, is by looking at the front grille, or trademark badge. I am an Aston fan. But, Morgan just has shed- loads of character.

[@AlexOliver555]

Two cars that make me proud not only to be British but proud to be a British Engineer. Hopefully one day I will work for a company like Morgan or Aston. That would be a dream come true.

[@michaeldavid4809]

I would buy the Morgan if it came in behind the sports car 4 minutes later. The fact that a car that looks like this can go fast and stay on the road is awesome. The car with all the character and class came within just 4 seconds of the one dimensional Aston after a 2 mile race. That is very impressive.

[@surajjohn29]

Love it everytime Car and driver makes videos ! perfect guys keep up the great work !

[@vvysoc]

Wow CarandDriver, I normally am not blown away by your production but now I am...GREAT JOB REALLY

[@martinvicuna1345]

Very very good video! I have really enjoy it. I think this Abroad videos, with Jethro, are making a difference against the competition for C&D

[@donandnanelmore8278]

This is the second review I have just watched where they test an automatic Morgan. Really, it shouldn't be sold to anyone with a good left foot for a clutch. In the '60s, I had a Morgan 4/4 and I absolutely ran away from a 911 in the turns driving through Laguna Canyon, Calif.. He would catch me on the straights, but couldn't pass. If you are going to take a Morgan to the track, at least get a stick. AND of course a car with traction control would have a better chance in the wet than one without.

[@adampetten5349]

This Morgan is much quicker than it's a 60's counterpart but the 911 (and Vantage to a lesser extent) have become computerized spacecraft on wheels.A 60's db5 did the Top Gear track in 1:46 compared to 1:25 for the Vantage and 1:27 for modern Morgan. Manual would be better though.

[@GroxMirk]

The most exciting review I ever seen. This combination of nature views and fast astonishing cars with trembling camera that feels engine noise on the background of voice... Thank you.

[@tommymech]

Great to see that part of Snowdonia (PenyPass, PenyGwryd, Llanberis) where I (in times past) spent much time pushing whatever set of wheels I had at the time to my limits. Very informative vid without being in the least bit boring. Love the Aero. Oh and nice driving Jethro, you look like a natural behind the wheel at the Anglesey Circuit (assuming you did all the driving which I suspect you did). Cheers

[@Ithboltar666]

To me it´s not really that important that how fast car goes around a track circuit. Its all about how i feel about it how it looks and sounds and is it fun to drive on streets. I would definitely choose Morgan over Aston.

[@dustyrusty7956]

+Ithboltar666 Me too. I am checking on ordering times and US pricing for a custom Aero 8 w/ auto trans.

[@sjgj28]

Simply amazing video! One of my favorites by far..

[@nenjalj]

Great script, great camera work&editing, great soundtrack! Best C&D Abroad yet! And that road in Wales is amazing!

[@Groagun]

What a great video, so well done and worthy of an award.

[@deanstoops26]

AM's are great but I love the Morgan. I noticed that the Morgan put a smile on Jethro's face!! That is what a great road car is about!

[@SportbikerNZ]

A truly excellent review. Very impressed. Very well spoken and great detail.

[@dimitarttt]

Very good video! Keep up the good work!

[@funonutube100]

This is like comparing apples and oranges. The 2 cars could not be more different. Morgan's mind set and approach to building the +8 is completely different from that of AM. Each car here appeals to a totally different kind of driver , looking for a very different kind of driving experience . At it's roots the +8 is not a track car. It is made to drive swiftly down curvy, winding ,country back roads. A true British gentleman's car! Once you drive the +8 you are hooked forever... a true drivers car!!!

[@ohtoobefishin6449]

I agree and I just commented on that!

[@williamm6888]

I agree but I think the only reason they picked an Aston Martin is that they are both English Makes

[@carrera4s87]

Once again a magnificent video from car and driver abroad, really loved it! It would be great to see Jethro play with an XKR-RS or perhaps some other British sportscars such as some good ole TVRs like a Tuscan or Tamora etc.

[@laurentiudinca9606]

What an awesome car, the Morgan.

[@rubicon4wheeler]

This is your best video yet! LOVE the Morgan. Keep up the good work!!!

[@Duddits1]

Very good episode as usual!

[@ertahaz]

Very nicely presented, Mr. Jethro Bovingdon!

[@granthibbett]

Great video. Keep them coming.

[@Eidrian111]

that clip at the end of pure engine noise was marvelous what an excellent way to end a truly excellent video

[@larshansson3208]

What a good analysis, done with great respect.

[@carlsenden8750]

Why the comparison? The morgan is a superb Morgan.....and the Aston is a superb Aston? What is the similarity to prompt a blow for blow comparo? Apples and oranges IMHO. Superb production👌

[@fikes73]

Another great video Jethro, you are the man

[@user-yo3kf9fl5d]

I love my Aston, I have a V8VS Roadster, but I can certainly appreciate the beauty of the Morgan.

[@Trades46]

Cool to see such interesting takes on these quintessential British luxury coupes. Nice review.

[@MAFTulha]

Love the Morgan Aero as a special car and loved this video, very engaging. Jethro Bovingdon is a great comunicator and a great driver! i love his work! Congratulations once again!

[@NRichedEntertainment]

I would not car about 4 sec on a track against the Vantage is wet conditions. That interior is immeasurable, the design is one of a kind beauty, and it is ready to be driven for style or enjoyment. Perfection.

[@laddjm]

Absolutely wonderful review.

[@talalalbadr2128]

Amazing how far auto journalism has come

[@GR33NHAZ3]

What effort nice job!

[@BestCarSound]

Aww.. mega review ♥ I can feel the spirit of DR :D Keep on!

[@nfusco618]

Last I checked weather wasn't something controllable. Besides that, usually a car's dynamic flaws are amplified in the wet, so it actually gives you a better sense of its character.

[@DumpValvesAndDnB]

18 Mins of Bovingdon.. Thumbs up!!

[@brunofilleti]

I like the way you construct the character of the car... good stuff tks you sir

[@Envinite]

Good God, I hope the Morgan company still around in the next 10 years when I'm finally have a stable financial to buy and import their car.

[@BrianChambersUnique319]

Awesome video I love this... too cool for school.

[@lui505]

Beautiful places, weather and car !

[@thomas4776]

One of the best car videos I ever saw, Morgans are a true UK gem!

[@Irandal]

Great video. Videos about Morgan are pretty rare, I would like to see one compete against a Wiesmann too !

[@nbrigdan]

That Aston looks SO bad ass! I haven't seen it with that black grille ever!

[@FORZWIN]

Nicely Done C&D!!!

[@IanObzi]

The Morgan doesn't belong on a track but most people wanting to do that wouldn't buy the Aston either, they'd buy a Caterham, or an Atom, or one of many other cars better suited to it. The Aston has numerous rivals, the Morgan is something unique.

[@randypowell3180]

That was fun to watch. And just put the Morgan at the top of my dream car list!

[@TheOfficialCaseMade]

8:03...ripping ass in an Aston! That's awesome! I really love this video, and both of these cars...Thanks for the post C&D!

[@Angelo_Botta]

Fantastic review indeed. Beautiful landscape. I would go for the Morgan.

[@lonersanonymous]

That final clip of the Morgan on an empty country road is why I love cars and driving.

[@KonkelVonk]

Great Vid!

[@AlternativeUses]

great vid!

[@Tormentingtarmac]

Car and driver, fantastic video, if you could do the Aventador vs the F12 Berlinetta, I assume that is the comparison that everyone and their mother is waiting for, if you could have Jethro do it, it would be EPIC. Great job once again

[@bench175]

My favorite scene is when you have them side by side at 6:54. Do that more often!

[@greatferrarimasterplan4836]

We found Morgan Motor Company's new formula drift team manager.

[@RMAGEDN740]

great match-up!!

[@zimbazamba]

Brilliant review Jethro ;)

[@jamdc2000]

another great episode; great cars, great views, great scenes. With this, Chris Harris on Cars, MotorTrend Ignition and Epic drives who needs TV anymore?(until TGear UK starts next year)

[@lancetaylor7]

This shows how tradition counts. Look at the new Jaguars...BMWS, Mercedes, Porsche, Bugattis, large price tags and current technology, but put them up against their own from the 40s, 50s,60s, which would you prefer to be in? Beautiful classically rounded lines, simple sports car exhilaration, the aura of individualistic daring and romance. You don't get that in the new cars. For those with higher means, they should push for the best of both worlds, the passion of cars past, and some of the newer technology we have now, but only in the service of the spirit of the past. That would be true luxury. You can't beat the beauty of the E-Type, 60s era Porsche 911, classic open Bugatti, Jag XK-140, etc. so don't change them, keep the tradition going. Morgan has done this.

[@WaysideTrailer]

Great video! That Morgan looks so cool.

[@europachef]

I love English cars and it's nice to see that Morgan keeps the English traditions of hand built alive.

[@quackman]

Awesome video, great presenter!

[@davidfarmer4992]

nice review

[@MrMuzace]

Awesome work - thanks Jethro - been dying to see someone do a proper review of the Morgan Aero Coupe. What a gorgeous fun toy. Is there an LSD on this car?

[@boson2916]

This is one of the rare classic cars that has a DNA imprinted in it

[@tonweya3615]

Thanks a lot for the video. Because for me, experience beats numbers and bpm are more relevant than km/h (driving a Smart Roadster), I just enjoyed the impression of the Morgan and keep dreaming of a closer contact one day.

[@gwwayner]

For the real world of public roads and driving enjoyment the Morgan wins. If these two cars are parked together you just know everyone is going to walk past the fantastic-but-generic Aston and gawk at the gorgeous Aero. Imagine as you drive up to a soiree; the Morgan announces you have arrived!

[@Closeoutracer]

+gwwayner " Imagine as you drive up to a soiree; the Morgan announces you have arrived!" ... Really?

[@samlawts1193]

mate the Morgan is one of the ugliest cars on the planet. the aston is just beautiful in every way.

[@TreeLBollingTreeMan]

+Samlawts 1 Well, that your opinion, and you know what they say about opinions.

[@samlawts1193]

Tree L. Bolling it's not an opinion, look at the Morgan it's so ugly you have to admit

[@TreeLBollingTreeMan]

+Samlawts 1 So in other words, you are telling me that in your opinion, your opinion is not an opinion. Oh my! Please excuse me while bust I a gut laughing and leave you to your own circle jerk. Have fun.

[@evild614]

Where on earth could you have gotten the idea of a guy with a British accent going sideways in nice cars and describing them in metaphors?

[@Keihryon]

Would be nice if more auto makers went back to the 40's era cars with large curved fenders. My uncle use to have a 42 buick coupe. It didn't run sadly, but even in it's deteriorated state it was still a beautiful car.

[@DemiseCatastrophic]

The Morgan Aero Coupe is simply one of the most beautiful cars I have ever seen.

[@RobertMel27]

It would be really cool to see a comparison between the old C43 AMG against a newer C63 AMG. The C43 was the first C-Class with a V8 and also the first car AMG made when they were acquired by Daimler. It would be a great way to show the progression of AMG through the C-Class range.

[@jlgroovetek]

Nice review Jethro; feels like I'm riding in the car when you describe it. Definitely up there with Chris Harris in that sense, but with a different style.

[@ara101790]

Haha when you said the Morgan's engine was all torque, at first I thought you said "all talk". Great video.

[@HUMC5]

good review

[@tanner87]

Great video & I really wouldn't know which car to have, absolutely love Aston's but you can get more wow than the Morgan

[@helenholmes7660]

Superb!!!

[@clausmller432]

What kind of rig do you use for the detail shots of the Morgan from 2:10? They are great!

[@brvdleigh3546]

I love how it uses Mini Cooper headlights :) But aside from that I love the Morgan because it looks so different!

[@supersayin1]

If I ever win the Lotto I'm getting a Morgan simply for the Cool and classy factor!! This Car rocks!!

[@idriwzrd]

Morgan and Aston Martin, two of the best car-makers presently and ever. And both cars tested with the wrong gearbox. (the paddles in the Aston even sounded cheap and plasticy, and they don't turn with the wheel) Great vid, though, Car and Driver. I may just have to subscribe.

[@rousemotorsport]

The Morgan has so much character. I would take the Morgan all day long.

[@jimardizoni3453]

Truly a car for the very few ! Very cool in a old school way. I would consider one after I win the lottery. What's the old saying, one problem at a time!

[@AldiLover89]

bringing a morgan to a track is like wearing a tuxedo to a gym; you just don't do it...

[@SeraphimxSins]

Good analogy. Perfect actually.

[@LupusAries]

:D ever looked at the GT3 variant? It was great.....because it was soo different. You had all these modern cars and then there was that one which looked a bit like a throback to the 20's and 30's.

[@Redstoneprime316]

deus exutopia aren't they built for the track?

[@psk1w1]

It is interesting that the commentator spoke about its perfect balance on the road, and then found it to be a wild over-steerer on the track. Some development should reduce if not eliminate that. Start with roll stiffness balance? As in more at front, less rear

[@gabenegron2373]

But you *can*... Yet most won't and shouldnt