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Decision time for the Roadster

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  • Decision time for the Roadster

    Well, another year has gone by & this time only 214 miles covered in the roadster in 12 months.

    Built 25 years ago (1985) and covered about 14k in that time.

    I think it may be time to make a decision on its future with me.

    The cons :-
    Cramped cockpit.
    Its drafty at anything over 30mph with no side windows.
    Its uncomfortable for any journey over 50 miles.
    Every bump in the road is felt.
    Spends most of it's time just sitting at the back of the garage.
    The hood needs replacing really after 25 years.
    Dammed awkward to get in & out when the hood is up.

    The pro's :-
    It's economical (30mpg round town, more on the run) - heavy right foot !!.
    No road tax
    Relatively cheap insurance.
    I have the space to keep it.
    It's like a part of the family.

    Do I have another vehicle - yes I do. A 1972 Triumph Stag.

    Cons:-
    Not so economical - 20mpg if I'm lucky.

    Pro's:-
    No road tax
    Cheaper to insure than the Roadster
    Faster
    Nearly draft free with the hood down & rear wind deflector.
    Far more comfortable.
    Proper doors & electric windows
    2+ a more useable 2 seats(rear)
    It's a V8

    Trouble is, my garage is double length. So Marlin goes in first then the Stag. If I want to get the Marlin out then I have to move the Stag 1st, so you can guess what happens - I just take the Stag. Done 750 miles in that since March.

    I have been in this situation before, about ten years ago, when I lost interest in the Marlin, I overcame it. Maybe I will again, although I do fancy another 'classic' restoration so would need the space.

    Rest assured, any decision wont be hurriedly made.

  • #2
    Re: Decision time for the Roadster

    Sold my Cabrio and bought a Mx5 admitedly for different reasons, regretted it, sold the mazda early this year and bought another Cabrio. Nuff said!!

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    • #3
      Re: Decision time for the Roadster

      Hi Neil, Dont do it you may well live to regret it a Marlin is for life not just 25 years....................

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      • #4
        Re: Decision time for the Roadster

        Put the Stag V8 in the Roadster ;-)

        Seriously, having been through similar wobbles myself don't sell it...you need to find a major project to do on it to restore the "thrill of the build" and rekindle some enthusiasm.
        Marlin Roadster, LWB...1860 B Series + Ford Type 9
        Renault Espace 54mm front calipers, vented discs, cycle wings and adjustable tie-bars.

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        • #5
          Re: Decision time for the Roadster

          Put the stag in the garage first, then you will have to move the Marlin to get Stag out.
          Ben Caswell probably not the last word on anything here!!

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          • #6
            Re: Decision time for the Roadster

            Neil, you could just lend it to me and I would make sure it got plenty of use and love and attention :-)

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            • #7
              Re: Decision time for the Roadster

              Ben echoed what I was thinking.....

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              • #8
                Re: Decision time for the Roadster

                Neil

                Before making your mind up I would suggest going for a pleasant drive on a sunny (hopefully) day to an approriate venue. Seing as you are somewhere in the West Midland a trip to the Peak District meet in Sheldon on the last Saturday in month may help you to decide.

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