V8V - the perfect car for home garage enthusiasts ?

[JonnyCJ]

The more I get involved in my car the more I love it. Relatively old school mechanicals and nothing I've tried so far has had me stumped.

Must admit, advice on here and various videos has been very helpful and I'm actually really pleased that there's Volvo/Jag/Ford parts on it, as it means they'll be readily available and not at exorbitant prices.

Obviously there's stuff that only an Indy can sort, but for someone who missed their vocation in life (as a mechanic) it gives me a lot of satisfaction.

Compare that to a Ferrari or Porsche and you have something that is more beautiful, sounds amazing and you can actually invest some time in.

[Graze01]

Johnny

I think in years to come there will be very few cars you can work on at home, you may be right the V8 Vantage may become a collectible classic for that reason.

Of course in years to come there may be far fewer people interested in working on or driving their cars

Graze

[paulrog1]

I enjoy working on my DB9 at home, there great cars for home DIY.

The 1st gen Gaydon cars will prove to be the best AM generation made ever.

[john ryan]

I've home serviced mine for 7 years, with a pit and a half hieght lift. Nothing difficult about the V8 for routine maintenance. Just working up to doing a timing cover leak. The only online resource appears to be Bernard Emden's site. Is there any other online guide?

[vernierMike]

I've done some bits and now taking the plunge with mine.

I completely agree; working on vehicles increases the bond between person and machine! Saving a packet helps the warm glow of appreciation...

[2 GKC]

Must make them difficult to sell when the times comes though?

[JonnyCJ]

2 GKC said:

Must make them difficult to sell when the times comes though?

I get an AML specialist stamp in the book every year and all receipts. I'm sure a well looked after car that's been fastidiously maintained by an enthusiast, will have more value than one where there may be hidden things lurking, that a previous owner didn't want to pay a garage to do.

In addition, the money saved by changing simple service items like brakes pads, discs, wheel bearings etc by yourself adds to the overall return on the car.

[john ryan]

I keep all my invoices, and a detailed record of actions (on all my cars). My V8V is now 13; if I were buying, a full service history would be nice to have, but my absolute focus would be on mechanical condition and appearance.

[David Ramsbotham]

I totally agree, the sensible buyer will weigh everything up before taking the plunge. The problem arises when people become fixated on dealer stamps in a book because some people on forums tell them that’s what to look for!