NEW ZEALAND CLASSIC CAR BEHIND THE GARAGE DOOR Surgical Spirits

Once again we went out and about to take our monthly peek at readers’ ongoing classic-car restoration projects

Tawa-based classic-car restoration and repair specialist, The Surgery, has been rather busy lately. Two of the many projects currently underway within its extensive workshop include this E-type Jaguar and Fiat Bambina.

The E-type has just been painted in its original red colour scheme after being on the receiving end of extensive bodywork — including the fitment of new sills, door skins and rear valance, while sections of the floor were also replaced. The big cat’s original 4.2-litre six-cylinder XK engine and manual gearbox will be reinstalled, along with a new black leather interior.

The Fiat Bambina is a rare, early suicidedoor model. This cute little saloon’s body has just been acid dipped, and though it had looked in respectable condition prior to treatment, the Fiat’s panels turned out to require rather more serious surgical work than originally anticipated.