Morgan Aero GT: Geneva 2018

Morgan kicks off Geneva with two limited edition models, bidding farewell to BMW's 4.8-litre V8.

Morgan has unveiled the runout editions of its Plus 8 and Aero 8 models - the final cars to feature BMW's naturally-aspirated N62 V8 engine. The Plus 8, dubbed the 50th Anniversary Edition, has been partially revealed already thanks to a series of teaser shots, but this is our first look at the Aero 8 GT, which will be limited to a production run of just eight cars.

The factory describes the GT as a 'gloves off' variant, and says that they will all be built by the Special Projects division. Lessons learnt from the 2009 GT3 race car have been applied to the model's new design, which is intended to enhance the Aero 8's aerodynamic performance. Alongside wing top louvre vents and a rear diffuser, the car is also available with a carbon fibre hard-top.

"The Aero GT, unlike its predecessors, adopts an unconventionally aggressive aesthetic. However, a purist approach to achieving a design in which 'form follows function' has been rigidly adhered to. This is most apparent in the new additions to the body work," said Jon Wells, Morgan's Head of Design.

"The Aero range has always offered Morgan the platform to explore the boundaries of mechanical and styling design and I am delighted the family has allowed one of our wildest ideas to become a reality."

The GT shares its 367hp V8 with the Plus 8, although it is only sold with the manual six-speed gearbox. Each buyer will enjoy an individual design consultancy with Mr Wells, reflecting the amount of personal tailoring that Morgan can accommodate. The model starts at £120,000 (plus tax) and PH understands that all eight have already been sold.

Alternatively, the Plus 8 special edition, which features a number of styling details intended to hark back to the 1968 prototype (including five-stud wheels and leather-sealed wing panels) is priced from £107,500, and is being allocated to Morgan's dealership network. We can't imagine they'll be around for long.