> ----------
> From: Gernot Vonhoegen
> Sent: Thursday, March 05, 1998 2:46 PM
> To: 'Ross Vincenti'
> Subject: RE: Re[2]: MGB vs. Spitfire!!
>
> ====================
> Both are good choices for a first time "wrench head". You won't go
> wrong either way. Some of the list members may disagree about the
> MGB,
> but chalk that up to bias. Don't forget to consider the
> sprite/midget,
> Agree. If funds allow, why not take a look at the TR6
> ====================
> Parts availibility (specifically panels)
> Equal, all parts available for the B as well.
> , ease of
> > repair (I'm sure that's where the Spit excels!),
> and overall comparison
> > of the two (build quality, fit/finish, reliability, fun factor, etc)
> ====================
> Parts for both cars are VERY obtainable and are remarkably cheap
> compared
> to some other cars such as older Porsche 356s, the big Healy's, or
> Jaguars for example. Of course, there are exceptions to the rule - I
> think you will find that a small handful of parts (e.g., heater
> valves,
> rear hubs, original fuel pump, etc.) for the Spitfire are either
> difficult to find here state-side or are available but at what seem to
> be
> hideous prices. However, these really are the exception.
>
> Ease of repair - no contest here, the Spit wins hands down. There is
> nothing that beats a flip forward bonnet for ease of access. I don't
> know if the MGB body easily unbolts from its frame (fellow listers?
> What frame? that much for the advanced technology of the spitfire that
> a fellow lister stressed...
>
> but the Spit body litterally lifts off after undoing about 10
> bolts. Otherwise, there's not a terrible lot of difference between
> the
> two.
>
> Overall comparison - Build quality is the same - spotty in places,
> good
> in others. Fit and finish on a project car is really a non-issue if
> you
> think about it. You're going to redo it anyways, right? Keep in mind
>
> both the MGB and the Spit were meant to be CHEAP sports cars. A
> better
> comparison is the sprite/midget, as the MGB is really a more up market
>
> vehicle as it was slightly better equiped than the Spit and
> significantly
> heavier. Reliability was never a strong point with these cars, but if
>
> you do a full restoration that won't be an issue for you. Fun factor?
>
> Shoot, ANY little British car is FUN!
>
> Final words - find a solid rust free vehicle that is "complete" and
> within your budget. If you have to spend a little bit more for a
> complete car, then go over budget to get it. You'll be happy you did.
> Agree
> Gernot
>
>
>
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