Embark on a captivating journey in the Morgan Supersport 400 through the scenic Faroe Islands, where classic design meets exhilarating performance.
It’s nearing midnight in the Faroe Islands, yet the sun remains suspended in the sky, casting a serene purple glow over the otherworldly landscape. This enchanted atmosphere sets the stage for an unforgettable journey behind the wheel of the Morgan Supersport 400—one of the newest offerings from this quintessential British manufacturer.
The Supersport 400, sporting a striking Matisse blue finish, was built just weeks prior to this adventure and is drawing curious glances everywhere it goes. Its vibrant color contrasts sharply with the lush greens of the Faroe Islands, a hauntingly beautiful archipelago known for its dramatic landscapes and rugged coastlines.
This particular model is notable not just for its exterior but also for the unmistakable roar of its engine. When engaging the Sport Plus mode, the car erupts with sound, captivating locals and tourists alike, as it navigates the tunnels that connect the islands, turning these passages into concert halls for its high-performance symphony.
The Journey Begins: Morgan Factory to the Faroes
My journey commenced at the Morgan factory in Malvern, Worcestershire, on the longest day of the year. The Supersport 400 arrives with a purposeful presence, enhanced by its bronze 19-inch alloys and optional carbon fiber hardtop. The interior, featuring a Morgan-designed aluminum gear selector replaces a previous BMW unit, elevates the luxury feel while Alcantara upholstery adds a premium touch.
Under the hood is the BMW B58 six-cylinder engine, uniquely tuned by Morgan to produce 402 brake horsepower. This output not only makes it the strongest Morgan yet but also offers a spine-tingling audio experience, aided by an Active Performance Exhaust system. I activate the car’s loudest setting and relish the sound as I prepare to embark on this multi-country journey.
Traveling Through Europe
Leaving Malvern behind, the road to the Faroes is approximately 200 miles to Folkestone, England, where my first sea crossing awaits. The drive is far from scenic, traversing the congested M40 and infamous M25, yet the Supersport 400’s responsive air conditioning and supportive seats enable a comfortable ride through the sweltering June heat.
Upon reaching the Eurotunnel, I board the train towards Calais, France, a brief 30-minute trip. Once on the continent, efficiency reigns supreme as I hit the French autoroute, blessed with a higher speed limit of 130 km/h (81 mph). The wind noise increases considerably, but the Morgan’s Sennheiser audio system helps mask the disturbance while I indulge in discovering Faroese musicians on Spotify.
After a day of driving, I rest at a modest hotel in Eindhoven, Netherlands. However, without air conditioning, sleep eludes me. The next day I head into Germany, where drivers can enjoy the unrestricted speed of the autobahn. Here, the Supersport 400 accelerates remarkably, boasting a zero-to-62 mph time of 3.6 seconds, and proving its capability by effortlessly reaching over 150 mph in stable fashion.
Crossing Borders to the Faroe Islands
Entering Denmark heralds a new pace and scenery as I head towards Aarhus, a city blending Viking past with modern allure. After some engaging exploration, I continue on to Hirtshals where the Smyril Line ferry awaits to whisk me away to the Faroe Islands. The Norrõna ferry can transport 800 cars and 1500 passengers, creating a vibrant atmosphere as adventurers of all kinds board alongside the Supersport 400.
The 36-hour journey crosses expansive stretches of sea, ultimately presenting the picturesque skyline of Torshavn, the capital of the Faroes. The town's charming harbor, steeply pitched streets, and distinctive grass-roofed buildings emerge from the landscape, showcasing an architectural character melded with natural beauty. As I check into the hotel, I inadvertently find myself amidst the Voxbotn music festival, promising a lively experience into the night.
Embracing the Faroese Landscape
The next day's exploration of the islands highlights their unique geography and the modern infrastructure that enables easy travel. Approximately 23 tunnels, several beneath the sea, connect remote communities with Torshavn, a convenience that has transformed accessibility across the islands. One of the newest is the underwater tunnel connecting Streymoy and Eysturoy, complete with the world’s only submerged roundabout, showcasing engineering ingenuity.
Driving through these tunnels expands my appreciation for the Supersport 400's performance, as the acoustics amplify the car's engaging sounds with each acceleration. Within moments, I emerge onto Eysturoy to take in the stunning Skála fjord, dotted with salmon farms that contribute significantly to the local economy.
The road soon becomes a winding path carved into the mountains, pushing the limits of my driving enjoyment. The Supersport, with its higher suspension setting for better wheel travel, maintains composure and stability even while tackling sharp curves, proving its prowess in a way that could easily rival performance-focused sports cars from Germany.
A Joyride Amidst Nature's Wonders
As I continue to navigate the stunning landscapes, the Morgan draws admiration everywhere. The sheep, the iconic residents of the Faroes, amble across the roads with no fear of oncoming traffic, and a multitude of seabirds thrive in the cliffs above. This joyful chaos complements the serene backdrop of constant rainfall and sun that the islands experience—a discovery that enriches my adventure.
The journey climaxes at the village of Gjógv with scenic overlooks to savor, enhancing my connection to the vehicle and the landscapes around me. Driving further west towards Eiði, each bend of the road signifies the Morgan's capability as I reach exhilarating speeds, celebrating my surroundings and the car’s performance simultaneously.
A Fitting End to a Legendary Journey
Every sunset—if one could call it that in the perpetual daylight—brings fresh adventures as I visit black sandy beaches, ancient sites, and even iconic movie locations like the site from No Time To Die. Each encounter sprinkles a touch of cinematic luxury to my wanderings. And, invariably, the Supersport 400 remains a spectacle amidst the stunning Faroe scenery.
As night falls into morning under the endless daylight, I find myself in the delightful position of being pursued by an enthusiastic local in a classic Mazda Miata. The sun's unyielding presence enhances my feelings of nostalgia throughout this journey, a perfect encapsulation of what makes driving a Morgan so memorable—a blend of history, performance, and pure joy that often feels timeless.
In conclusion, my expedition through the Faroe Islands confirms that the Morgan Supersport 400 is far more than just a car; it’s a marriage of classic automotive design and exhilarating modern performance, promising experiences that will last a lifetime.
