BUYING WITH CONFIDENCE

CONCOURS £30k- 45k+

1 DARE YOU DRIVE IT?

This is a potentially tricky proposition, because you’ll want to drive the socks off it, but a tired drivetrain will dent the value. 2 ORIGINALITY

US-spec can be shunned without diminishing value, though authenticity is key, so many tweaks put concours status in jeopardy. 3 HOME GROWN

UK cars with big history files command a premium. Original trinkets such as wire wheels add to the allure.

GOOD £15k- 30k

1 RUNNING GEAR

Many TRs enjoy plenty of hard use, so test drive with a cool head to ensure that the mechanicals are as healthy as the exterior. 2 LOOK FOR ROT

Corrosion is usually the single biggest factor that affects a given car’s value, because replacing metal causes costs to rocket. 3 MODIFICATIONS

Common in high-end examples. Make sure the new components can handle each other.

USABLE £10k- 15k

1 CORROSION Often an ongoing problem at this price. It’s a body-on-frame design; both elements rot, and many shells have been patched. 2 TRANSMISSION

Never up to the job. Clonky UJs are a simple fix, while rumbling layshaft bearings require a new gearbox; budget about £500. 3 TIRED ENGINES

Usually become a bit baggy after around 120k miles. If a rebuild is due, it’s an excellent haggling point.

PROJECT £5k- 10k

1 FIT TO REBUILD? There are tricky areas, but TR6s are generally straightforward to restore. Parts availability and club support are great. 2 BODY COSTS

Don’t under-estimate the cost of replacement metal. A pair of new doors alone could set you back by a thousand pounds or more. 3 IS IT WORTH IT?

Don’t expect to make your money back when you sell, especially if you’re paying specialists to help.