It's rather lovely now to think about a Morgan taking a class win at Le Mans in 1962. It conjures up all sorts of splendid, carefree images of motor racing in a bygone era - nothing at all like the cutting-edge (and occasionally cutthroat) professionalism that is required in a modern pit lane. But in point of fact, the Morgan victory was thoroughly against the odds even 60 years ago. There is a terrific account of it here, if you're not familiar with the story - suffice it to say that Morgan's own 'David vs Goliath' description is not overselling it.
Never one to miss a trick (the original race car actually sparked a Plus 4 SuperSports model in period), Morgan has opted to celebrate its legendary triumph in familiar fashion. The just-launched, visually redolent Plus Four LM62 pays tribute to winning the 2.0-litre-class car - TOK 258 - and will be limited to just 62 examples globally, priced from £78,995.
Naturally you'll be wanting it in Morgan Jet Green (although Tetre Rouge is also available), but the LM62's standout feature is arguably the Heritage White hardtop - not just because it mimics the racing car's, but because it marks the first time the feature has been made available on the latest Plus Four. We rather like it.
Additional homage is paid with a bespoke graphics pack, which includes roundels with the number '29' - as per TOK 258 - as well as an LM62 rear badge, silver-painted wire wheels, a Le Mans-style fuel filler cap and a domed rear panel. These touches are complemented by driving spot lights, body-coloured A-pillars, a black splitter and cowl mesh, polished stoneguard, black mohair sidescreens, a sidescreen bag embroidered with the LM62 logo, and an active sports exhaust with black tailpipes.
Inside, you get the all-important numbered plaque, alongside LM62 laser-engraved black saddle-leather door pulls and headrests embroidered with the limited-edition graphic. Bespoke satin lacquer rubber mats with black vinyl edges, painted steering-wheel centre, and a Tawny wood centre-tunnel top and dashboard come fitted to the LM62 as standard, as do heated black leather Comfort Plus seats.
Steve Morris, Morgan CEO, commented: ""The 1962 Le Mans class-winning Morgan Plus 4 holds a special place in the hearts of Morgan enthusiasts, employees and owners around the world. With the LM62, we pay homage to this famous vehicle and incredible moment in time, 60 years on. Limited to just 62 individually numbered examples, the bespoke touches and enhanced level of standard specification make these cars an enticing proposition for customers wanting a piece of Morgan history."
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