
I’ve loved classic cars for as long as I can remember.
While my friends had pictures of rock bands in their bedrooms, I would stare at my Series 1 Jaguar E-type poster for hours.
Over the past couple of years I’ve been on a journey that has demonstrated how to enjoy classic car ownership on a tight budget – yes, it can be done!
It hasn’t all been happiness and laughter – and, yes, managing the finances has been challenging.
But I believe the cost is justified when you take into account the increased value of the car, the joy of ownership and my own self-development.

This Triumph Spitfire 1500 has been restored on a controlled budget
Before I started looking at suitable models, I made friends with my wonderful local old-car community – the Basingstoke Classic Car Club – who welcomed me with open arms and gave so much priceless advice.
Then, in June 2020, I took the plunge and bought a 1980 Triumph Spitfire 1500 for £3200. It was in need of some TLC, so I handed over the cash and crossed my fingers.
My new (old) car passed its MoT with only oil-leak advisories, and so my journey with ‘Bee’ began.