Sports Car Choice
Discussion
I'm looking to but a reasonably priced British sportscar. Something that will be practical with good performance and can be easily upgraded. Also must be pre 1973.
I have shotlisted to TR6 and MGC. I have ruled out cars such as Austin Healey and TR5 on initial purchase cost basis.
Any alternatives and does anyone know of a good example of either for sale?
I would prefer a car that already has upgrades.
I have shotlisted to TR6 and MGC. I have ruled out cars such as Austin Healey and TR5 on initial purchase cost basis.
Any alternatives and does anyone know of a good example of either for sale?
I would prefer a car that already has upgrades.
Lotus 7 Series 4 are much cheaper than other pre-Caterham ( originally based on Lotus 7 Series 3) models,
but slightly more civilised. I've owned both types.
It will make all other cars of the period seem slow and clumsy...and most current ones too.
Lots of engine possibilities.
Triumph GT6 was a good performer in its day, and the Triumph Spitfire can be fitted with the TR6 engine, if it's an affordable convertible you're after.
TVRs of that era were also ahead of British rivals, in both handling and performance, plus won't need constant welding in of new panels to keep on the road. Hardtops only at that time though.
The Sunbeam Alpine is often overlooked (owned one of those too
), and is a very civilised little grand tourer...with a V8 in 'Tiger' form...but one of those would be pretty dear.
but slightly more civilised. I've owned both types.
It will make all other cars of the period seem slow and clumsy...and most current ones too.
Lots of engine possibilities.
Triumph GT6 was a good performer in its day, and the Triumph Spitfire can be fitted with the TR6 engine, if it's an affordable convertible you're after.
TVRs of that era were also ahead of British rivals, in both handling and performance, plus won't need constant welding in of new panels to keep on the road. Hardtops only at that time though.
The Sunbeam Alpine is often overlooked (owned one of those too
), and is a very civilised little grand tourer...with a V8 in 'Tiger' form...but one of those would be pretty dear.I would avoid the MGC, the engine was incredibly heavy and underpowered and ruins the handling of what was an alright car in the B. A Sunbeam Alpine is a good suggestion, but I don't think the parts are as widely available as other marques. Happy hunting!
Not really a sports car, but my dad runs a Triumph Herald convertible everyday. Does 40MPG, no tax, but skinny tyres and rear wheel drive make for fun in the wet. You can also buy almost everything off the shelf.
Not really a sports car, but my dad runs a Triumph Herald convertible everyday. Does 40MPG, no tax, but skinny tyres and rear wheel drive make for fun in the wet. You can also buy almost everything off the shelf.
BlueCello said:
I would avoid the MGC, the engine was incredibly heavy and underpowered and ruins the handling of what was an alright car in the B. A Sunbeam Alpine is a good suggestion, but I don't think the parts are as widely available as other marques. Happy hunting!
Agree with you on the MGC but somehow it still appeals due to the "underdog" factor. Modified ones seem to be radically improved and they can be made to go and handle well - allegedly.I have owned TR6's years ago and found them rather crude even then, but now it's probably part of the attraction. Again they are well served with modifications.
A Jensen Healey is something else I've considered but again modification would be required and I don't think the market support is there and they had a reputation for fragility.
I would say Lotus everytime, an Elite, Elan, Elan +2 or Europa they will all be awesome. Awesome that is when they are actually working, in my very limited experience (knowing lots of people who own old Lotus') the old saying Lots Of Trouble Usually Serious may have a hint of truth to it.
The MGC is a very good car, I had a new one the early 70's. It's handling can be sorted quite easily.The engine is fabulous except for the restricting cabs, manifolds and exhaust fitted as standard. It has a 7 bearing crank and can be made to rev once the top end is opened up.
Having said all that I'd get an Elan!
Having said all that I'd get an Elan!
BlueCello said:
I would avoid the MGC, the engine was incredibly heavy and underpowered and ruins the handling of what was an alright car in the B.
Can't really agree. Treat them as two seperate cars and take the fact that the C is going to be nose heavy and you'll see the decent chassis beneath.Gassing Station | Classic Cars and Yesterday's Heroes | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff