mike cap

XKE !!

NC TRACKRAT

Older Jaguars are to be admired but not owned...Unless, of course, you have plenty of money, patience and are either an excellent mechanic or know one. Let's face it, if you're going to suffer, you might as well go ahead and buy a Ferrari!

solomonschris

Well it might not be all that rare but it could flat smoke that 1940 Buick!

hal m

If I was going to do a 356, would probably need to be an Outlaw! I have seen a number of these builds in Excellence and they seem to be the best of both worlds. Classic design and something more than 40hp!

However, I wonder whether such a modded car would qualify for vintage events?

I would assume that with Jags, you can replace the nasty Lucas electronics and have something a bit more reliable. I have heard that the carbs are prone to leaking as well.

scped

1968 Mercedes 280SL

hal m

My DD is an 05SL600 - V12 Twin Turbo with a tune - 600hp/700tq

so an old pagoda might not float my boat

ca993twin

With the MGA, Austin Healey, or Jag, you get both Lucas electrics, SU carbs and SU fuel pumps. For the Lucas stuff, you simply carry spares. The SU carbs have very sticky float valves that will leak. These can be replaced with an aftermarket float valve that cures this problem.

The SU fuel pump will simply stop "ticking" at the most inopportune moments. They respond well to a sharp "rap" to get them going again. Replacing the pump is very easy, and there are more reliable aftermarket ones... but you really will miss the "ticking" sound. Carry a spare.

hal m

Steve - sounds like fun! That's why we love Porsche's!

356Speedster

I kind of surprised that you guys aren't thinking of the 356 as your vintage ride of choice. What's not to like? The right manufacturer, engine at the right end, the right cooling system...

I've owned a number of 356s over the years, though not nearly as many as some of my pals over at 356Registry.com, and they are really fun cars. I'm on my fourth 356C - a car you can drive anywhere anytime, and am lucky enough to also have a 58 Speedster, fully restored and all. I just can't imagine driving any car would be as much fun all round as driving a 356 Speedster! I've been thinking of doing a tour or two as well, and I'm definitely taking the Speedster (maybe with a period aftermarket hardtop). Why would you want anything else?

Jim

goofballdeluxe

Because it costs over $100K for a nice Speedster?

Leon993

E-type no doubt. A car ahead of its time.

"The E-Type Jaguar is the most beautiful car in the world"

-Enzo Ferrari, 1964

Flying Finn

I love it (owning an old car), always have.

I have 2011 Caddy SUV, 2004 Jag, 1995 Porsche, 1973 Fiat and a 1968 Ford F-100 and while I like my Porsche the best, the Ford is the most fun in everyday use.

Simple things, not extra stuff, thick steel and just bare basics. And in the case of my F-100, damn cool, people love it. Plus it's great since I go to Home Depot to get all kind of building stuff quite often and if my Buell breaks, I can haul it to the shop.

So, if you like simple things with none of the modern "crap", you'll like it. If however you feel good a/c, Mac, comfort & iPod connections are essential, don't bother...

I agree with others about Jag E-Type, one of the most beautiful cars ever made. Even Enzo himself thought it was the most beautiful car in the World.

LaurenceG

I am the 2nd owner of a 10,000 original mile Ferrari 330 GTC. I also have a 14,000 original mile 280 SL (1971). The Ferrari is my all time favorite. The Pagoda is a gem.
LG

Aatos

My choice would be a 1750/2000 GTV. It's pretty, a blast to drive and quite affordable considering the other contenders!

cmat

+1 for the Alfa......one of my favorite cars and avordable.