Chassis: is in excellent condition throughout and free from corrosion with no visible evidence of any previous damage or major repairs. A common area of corrosion on this model is the chassis outriggers where the fibreglass body is bonded to the chassis. These areas cannot physically be inspected without cutting away the fibreglass, but the problem, when present, manifests itself in the bulging/cracking of the fibreglass in those areas. This condition is not present on this car, which suggests no problem with these outriggers.

Exterior trim:, what little there is, is all in good condition. Corner bumpers are polished alloy. Screen rubbers appear new, probably replaced when the repaint was undertaken. Wheels are silver Minilite type, fitted with a matching set of Goodyear Eagle GT tyres, size 215/60 R14, which appear to have had little use, with tread depth almost that of new tyres

Engine & transmission: engine appears to be in excellent condition with no undue problems. Reportedly rebuilt not many miles ago, and external inspection seems to support that. No undue noise or smoke emission, and no significant oil or water leaks. Performs excellently – this is a powerful engine in a light car, and the performance matches that combination! The engine seems to be at its best when being used as intended. Oil pressure is 70+ PSI at speed, 50+ PSI at idle (hot).

Clutch action is firm with a short throw, which suggests the likelihood of an uprated clutch being fitted. No noticeable slip or drag. Gearbox performs as it should, with a positive action and no evidence of undue noise or wear. Differential & drive shafts appear to be OK with no apparent problems

Suspension, steering & brakes: springs & dampers perform as they should – the ride is firm, no doubt a result of the recently fitted AVO adjustable dampers. The springs could also be uprated from standard. Some superficial cracks to some suspension bushes, but no significant wear or free play apparent. No undue play in the wheel bearings. Slight amount of vertical play in right hand end of steering rack – not excessive. Superficial dents in lower rear suspension arms where it would appear a jack has been placed.

Brakes are effective – original set-up of discs front, drums rear. Pulls up straight, no apparent binding or sticking. Hand brake effective, if not perfect. All brake lines in serviceable condition

Electrical system: wiring loom has probably been renewed at some point in the car’s past. All lights working. All instruments working. Speedo needle erratic below around 30 MPH, but smoother

above that. Starter & alternator OK. Other circuits tested OK. Electric cooling fan fitted, but may benefit from a larger/more powerful type for continued hot weather use.

Interior: interior trim is all good, with the exception of faded leather on the seats and some wear and fading to the carpets. Headlining, door trims & dashboard are all good. As there is no significant wear to the leather, it would benefit from a straightforward re-dye of the seats, plus a new carpet set. A “Momo” three spoke steering wheel is fitted.

On the road: on a short test drive, the car performed well. The engine is responsive & powerful. The car feels very quick and sounds like a beast! As already mentioned, the ride is firm and sporting in its nature and the car corners with little roll. More at home on smoother roads, and pulls up straight & true under braking, No misfires, rough running or other similar issues were noted during the test. Temperature and pressure remained stable throughout. The transmission works effectively in use.

Summary: in my opinion, this is a car that has been built to be used and driven, and I feel that it is very driveable. It is a very tactile machine and as such, it is not intended to be a static display piece, nor is it a concours contender. Nevertheless, it is a stunning looking machine that I feel you could be proud to take anywhere – it will turn heads wherever it goes and will provide a unique driving experience en route!

PLEASE NOTE: the aim of this report is to give the reader an insight into the condition & quality of the car. It is not exhaustive and there may be omissions. It should also be noted that the contents are merely the author’s opinions – they are not intended to be statements of fact. Due to the nature of classis cars, and without the specific information available, it is impossible for the author to know exactly what work has been undertaken on the car, when it was done, or by whom. The report therefore merely contains best estimates based on 20+ years experience in classis cars. Also, it is not the intention of the report to inform on whether or not the car may be in its correct or original specification – the author feels that the question of original specification is very subjective, and is best left to one-marque experts. The author’s field is classic cars in general, rather than one specific model, and therefore the report focuses wholly on condition & quality, not specifications.

Appraisal conducted by Paul Dolan