MAXTHEDOG

Hi all,
I've been contemplating changing my MY2000 Jaguar XK8 for something a little smaller, both physically and cubic capacity wise. Among the candidates have been Porsche Boxster, Fiat 124 Spider(new one), BMW Z3/4 and the MX-5 NC. I have an MY06 diesel Freelander for the day to day things so whatever I get will be my bit of a treat! :thumbsu:
The Boxster would probably give me nightmares about its IMS bearing unless it'd definitely been done and they are a bit popular in the eyes of thieves. So they're out.
The Fiat, hmm well it's an MX-5 with a different body and also I don't really want anything to do with a turbo. The Jag is a NA 4.0 and prior to retiring I'd always wanted one but with a company car for decades couldn't justify one.
Beemers, the Z3, I don't know what it is but they don't really appeal. The 4's more appealing but in E89 guise are too complicated with that hard top power roof. Mucho, mucho potential for an expensive surprise. Also, both the 3 and 4 seem to have far too many bushes which are another source of expense. Don't get me wrong, the Jag and myself are familiar with expense - head gasket, timing chains and tensioners, thermostat and housing, brake calipers and other joys, but now it's running superbly.
Luckily I've got a good Freelander if there is such a thing and I've enjoyed (yes, really) changing all its filters and fluids like I used to do when cars had a coil and points!
So that leaves the MX-5. They can rust atrociously from the inside. The NC's can chew their engines if you don't keep a sharp eye on the oil level. Power hood. But reliable and relatively cheap.
So, onto MGF/TF's. Obviously, I've been reading and YT watching and there isn't anything that really causes me to metaphorically sit up with wide eyes. Head gasket? Pah! Coolant pipes upgrade? Sensible. Cambelt? once you've had the £2.5k bill for a Jag this all looks a pleasure.
So, I've seen Trophy cars website and can honestly say any of them except for the ones over five figures I could see myself buying. Especially the BRG ones. The only things I'd like are heated seats, and I'm sure that's do-able somehow.
Regards,
Michael.