So ... I have my 1997 XJ6R that I found by very serendipitous circumstances. Lots of up graded parts (uninstalled) and lots of problems. Enter a '71 MGB roadster, stock, all there, running driving, a little ratty. I am 67 YO and don't need another project, so neither of the cars fits the exact bill and yet I still have them both. Any friendly input will be appreciated. Sale price vs time invested, hang on to one without doing a thing, hang on to both, etc.etc. Thanks, Bros.

 

Years ago I had an MGB as a daily driver for a few years. More recently, but still a ways back, I had an XJR/6 as a daily driver for several years. Obviously you couldn't find two more opposite cars.

MGBs are fun to drive and easy to work on. Nothing high tech. They're almost stone-age, really. Body rust can be a major issue and burn up lots of money. Great parts availability and club/internet support.

I loved driving my XJR/6. Owning it wasn't always a pleasure cruise. I had quite a few problems. Some of them frustrating to diagnose and repair.

Personally, for a hobby/project car, I think the MGB would give more smiles and fewer frowns. Fixing problems is more like tinkering than work. They're surprisingly comfortable. Not fast....but fun.

Cheers
DD

 

Yeah, that's an avenue that seems to be the least bumpy. IMHO the B will also be worth more to the next owner as well. Thanks Doug!

 

I have little history with MGB. I am aware of them, I know people who own them, and I'm aware that they take some babying, regularly. Not difficult, but it's always there. Rust is a problem.

I think knowing you are 67....are you gonna want to to continue to baby this car?

The Jag, once its sorted, it can get to a "set and forget it" point. The turbo on this engine will make getting to some parts more complicated, but I feel like you could go awhile before you need anything to do on the Jag, whereas I don't believe you can ever get there in the MGB. Can you see yourself continuing to work on the MGB through the 70s? Age gets to us all. My eyes are not as great as they used to be and it makes for frustrating work in tight, dark spaces. (shoot, maybe I just made an argument to keep the MGB!)

 

How many miles on the XJR and how good was the service record?

The basic realities of mid 90's rubber cooling, fuel hoses and metalastic bushings on these cars are really the table stakes to be able to drive without worrying about worst case overheating, catching fire or the front suspension collapsing. The engine is great (assuming the supercharger has been kept lubricated) but most of the rubber consumables will need replacement for peace of mind.

Compared to the easy to work on MGB or your S these cars are a lot more complex. The electrics need to be kept dry but once they are running well they are a joy to drive and a far more supple and rapid ride than the earlier generation cars...

Edit - just saw your past cars album and realized you prob know all of the above, been there done that!

 

I'm going to be 68 in November, and while I still do lot's of work around the house and garage I've been downsizing my fleet. I plan to keep only one car to work on as a project. I've got a late model, low mileage daily, my '07 truck, and my '06 Mustang. I sold the "51 Mark VII and the '97 XJ6. I'm going to work on the XJS since I've gotten things down to a more manageable number. I'd keep whatever is currently running and is easier to work on as a project. Good luck with your choice. Gotta keep it fun!

 

thanks for the input guys. if i could just find a buyer for the jag the ice would break and this would be a non issue. the market is in the crapper and with two CL listings and CarGurus as well I have ZERO interest at 6K. Geez the parts are worth 2K. it will have to be the xj that goes (and i really hate saying that), there is just too much complicated work to be done. Rats! and it's such a pretty car! all i really have to do is take my meds so that the reoccuring shipwright's disease stays in remission.

 

one is a penalty box the other is a nice car

 

Personally I would sell them both and buy a well sorted jaguar.