Practically Classics Forum

I've been looking recently for a classic to replace the recently gone Princess, and to treat myself for the big 40 birthday later this year.

Realistic budget is going to be about £2500, at a push if I can keep SWMBO sweet £3000, and I don't mind something that needs work, I'm not adverse to getting my hands dirty. It also needs to have 4 seats so the kids can come too. I've looked at Stags, GTEs, Cortinas, Granadas, SD1s and P6s, but bar the first two on the list I've been there, done that, so something 'new' would be great. I also worry that a big V8 would spend more time sat as a garden ornament as petrol prices constantly rise, and of course something pre '73 would also be a bonus, so, ladies and gents, recommend me!

Land Rover Station Wagon Series 2/2a/3 with a 2.5 TD conversion or V8 with GAS.
MG Maestro / Montego.
Volvo Amazon / P1800
Farina (Take your pick)
Rover Sterling / Vitesse (Mk1 of course)
VW Variant?
VW Schirocco GT /GTII (Spelling)
Couple of Early Austin /MG Metro's (one for you and the wife?)
Scimitar as in your list but an SE5 or coupe.

Like me to go on?

Mal.

Please do Mal!

I'd like another 'Tickford' 800 after the last one died the death, I never got the full enjoyment out of that one, and another MG Monty appeals, as does an early MG Metro, as I still regret not buying one back in the day. I had a bright yellow P reg Scirocco many years back.

I'd not say no to a Triumph Vitesse, nice convertible on evilbay requiring finishing, but sods law says insurance won't have sent bloody cheque out in time even though we've settled on a figure, always quick enough to chase you tho...

Oh, and the Scimmy would be a 5 or 5a!

Very Tall Brad on the 800 forum is chopping the fleet agaian and there is a few very nice Mk1's going.

Mal.

I reckon the Gte is a good bet so long as the body is good.
Simitars are good for the money

How about a Dolomite Sprint? It ticks the right boxes and you can get one that's ready to go out of the box on your budget. I got one for about half your budget which was ready to go albeit with a few minor niggles a few of which I sorted out when I collected the car. If you want something pre-'73 then you could go for an early Dolomite 1850. A good one can be had within your budget.