Practically Classics Forum

ive been looking into getting a classic for a little while, and had pretty much decided on an MGB GT. However, in a moment of sanity, her indoors realised a 2 door might not be the best for family use. my simple question is, what should i get, im after something that is fairly simple to maintain, doesnt need a computer to fix, and is suitable for family use, saloon, hatch, estate, im not too fussy. i know its a bit broad, but im open to all ideas as i frankly havent much idea of whats out there!

once ive got this sorted, i can look at getting the MG as well, and ditch my renault...

Range Rover Classics are wonderful cars but I am biased.
How about a Rover P5B or P6, they are both big family saloons with v8 engines so sound wonderful and have a bit of speed behind them if you need it.
If you fancy something a little bit more modern the SD1 is a good looking car.
You can fix any of these in your shed with a hammer and a socket set. The Rover v8 is bomb proof reliable, bigger mileage or neglected ones can suffer worn cams and really neglected ones worn bores but even the most tired ones will still run and get you where you need to go.
Just like when looking for an MG, rust is the enemy of all classics big and small so if you go to see one, make sure you take a good look underneath.

sd1 diesel & a toyota mr2 instead of an mg

In the course of this thread, Homerstu, you'll see recommendations for everything! I suggest that you buy a well known make and model which has good spares availability and a strong owners' club. Also, make the car's condition a higher priority than its closeness to your ideal - IE accept the saloon version when you really would have preferred the estate if the saloon you go to view is in significantly the better condition. Buy your first classic with the head and subsequent ones with the heart.

I say that because I've spent these past 33 years doing exactly the opposite and that's why three drawers in my desk at home are dedicated to registration documents, parts invoices, MOT certificates and insurance certificates. A quick count suggests that I've had more than 90 cars registered in my name since 1981, don't make the same mistake, it's an addiction like any other and just as expensive..

If you ask this question on any forum, everyone will recommend their own choice, but any BL, Rover, MG or Triumph model will have good support and be easy to fix. Just take your time and find a good one.

homerstu wrote:ive been looking into getting a classic for a little while, and had pretty much decided on an MGB GT. However, in a moment of sanity, her indoors realised a 2 door might not be the best for family use.

Got to ask the question, why? There are plenty of two door saloons, or two door options that appear "sensible." The early Range Rovers were all two door. Getting children, dogs or shopping in the back isn't that difficult. Certainly a lot easier than those of us who have to squeeze in and out of front 'suicide doors.'

If your heart is set on the GT version of the MGB, go for it, but before you buy, take your other half with you so that she can see for herself that the rear seats have ample room. There maybe not much leg room but all you have to do is take the front seats forward a notch or two. The beauty of the GT hatch is that with the back seats down you have ample room for the weekly shop, a child's buggy or your golf clubs. It's a brilliant choice of car, why compromise?

Just a tip though, avoid the canvas sunroof, go for the hard top. You spend all that money on the car, you spend even more securing it, then matey comes along with his sharp knife, slices straight through the canvas and makes off with your pride and joy.

Mk2 grandadas seem good value compared to other classic fords. Nice clubs, nice to drive . If you want to go older rover p4 has suicide back doors so plenty of room there just watch them being opened whilst moving along. Triumph 2000 is another. Old merc maybe or a volvo amazon or series 1 jag if you have 6k. If it was me. Would go 2 door, Get A series manta, mk1 celica, Saab 99. It's good to get the family involved and let them help pick too so every credit.

Hi all

thanks for the suggestions, im still open to ideas but have been drooling over mach1rob's Dolomite post, which is what im veering towards.

GHT, a very good point you make there, i think the idea of having to tilt the seat forward, to secure a wriggling 3 year old in the back seat doesnt appeal to the wife, however we do have a MG specialist round the corner so will go and have a look at them in the flesh and see what she thinks, but it was her that suggested we could have 2 cars for the price of one modern car (twice as much work for me too, as theyre both bound to have some issue at the same time..)

ive plenty of time to make my mind up, im one of these "ohh id love one of those" and the mrs is "well sod it lets do it", a happy medium!

Thanks for the suggestions, keep them coming
Stu

A dolly is not that bad of an idea but for classic looks, design + most of the creature comforts of todays family cars = Rover P6 - purchase a solid one and you will not go far wrong - and yes I will openly admit that I am biased - I was going to sell my P6 V8 - but I just cant do it - it's such a comfortable car

The Dolomites that have the bri-nylon seats are quite comfortable. Yes, I'm biased too! They have good club support, can be easily fixed with conventional tools. Just get a decent one and you won't go far wrong.