1973 Triumph Stag V8 convertible review from UK and Ireland

Intermittent starting problem at 95,000 miles. The car would always eventually start, but on one occasion it took an hour. Problem was traced to a faulty solenoid.

Worn steering rack replaced at 105,000 miles, which was expensive, but transformed the handling.

Ignore everything you may have heard about Stag unreliability. It isn't true. A well-maintained Stag is reliable and a joy to drive.

The seats are slightly flat, but you can drive all day without discomfort.

The interior is snug with plenty of leg room in the front, and less so in the back. The back seat is really an occasional seat for adults, though kids will find it OK. If travelling, use it as luggage space. Boot space is generous.

You also get electric windows, power steering, and a steering wheel adjustable for reach and rake.

The V8 makes a noise like half a mile of ripping calico. Acceleration is adequate though not particularly stellar, but the car cruises beautifully and effortlessly at 55 to 60 and makes a fabulous noise doing it. Handling is good with a tendency to oversteer, but the care will twitch if you overdo it in the wet.

Rare and pretty enough to turn heads, but not so rare you can't get the parts support. Fabulous!