THE RECKONING

Driving done, our judges submit their scores and a final order emerges. Let the countdown begin

- STUART GALLAGHER

6th MORGAN PLUS SIX

It’s rare for a car that hasn’t claimed an eCoty podium spot to gain such universal praise from every judge, but the Morgan Plus Six endeared itself to all who drove her. Primarily this was because every drive was one of grin-inducing hilarity and, as Dickie Meaden so eloquently described, the Morgan engages you in the Thrill of Driving throughout every single metre travelled. It’s a welcome relief in today’s world ruled by cars with autonomous this, electronically assisted that.

Granted, the Plus Six is far from a high-gloss product. Its chassis could use some additional layers of polish to get the most from the BMW-sourced turbo six. A higher level of body control and more sophistication to the damping would also enable the car to work better over large compressions. More grip it doesn’t need, but a more progressive and higher-quality tyre would go a long way to providing more predictable and linear feedback. This engine will also take BMW’s six-speed manual gearbox… Oh, and the car is crying out for a better seat, or at least one with more support than a pillowcase.

Regardless of the above, the Plus Six more than earns its eCoty stripes. New cars this fun are few and far between, and should always be celebrated.

5th RENAULT MÉGANE RS TROPHY-R

There’s always one at eCoty. One car that polarises opinion like no other, and this year Renault’s Mégane RS Trophy-R claimed that gong. Dickie was the Mégane’s biggest advocate, placing it third and quite rightly pointing out that Renault Sport should be applauded for going to such lengths to create a hot hatch as focused and extreme as this. And he’s right. He’s also right in saying that if Renault Sport didn’t make such cars the roads would be very dull places.