Classic car mechanic’s weekly motoring – EV vs ICE

‘In the corner of the workshop, Olli Ragbin sits watching events unfold before him’

Electric vehicles have come a long way in recent years, with their zero emissions, increasing affordability, and impressive performance making them an attractive choice for many drivers.

But for many an enthusiast, the appeal of a classic car with a traditional power unit, manual gearbox, and sonorous engine can't be matched by electric. Classic cars offer a level of nostalgia and romance that simply can't be found in modern vehicles. The sound of a petrol engine starting up, the smell of burning hydrocarbons, and the tactile and analogue experience of shifting gears are all part of the appeal.

Of course, EVs have their own unique attractions. The instant torque of an electric motor, the smooth and quiet operation, and the zero emissions make them an popular choice for many drivers. But for some, the lack of a traditional power unit and the reliance on batteries and electronics is a step backward, not forward.

There will always be a market for classic cars with traditional power units, and for many collectors and enthusiasts, the nostalgia and romance of a classic petrol-powered car can't be matched, however, and here’s a scary thought, EVs could have a place in the classic car market.

There is a growing trend with classic car owners converting their vehicles to electric power. Who knows, if there is the demand, CCM may well have to consider a new mandatory line on the prospective Tech CV to cater for this emerging skill set. But is a silent 911 still a 911? The Porsche purists had what my mother would have described as a ‘dickie fit’ when the 911 went from air-cooled to water-cooled. A move toward electric may well finish them ‘em off altogether.

In the end, driving and ownership pleasure will dictate what falls into the classic category. As we stand, the work we see at CCM is going to be petrol for a long time to come ....(probably)

And so to this week’s selection of workshop pics.

Well that's the bonnet planted. Just need a drop of rain and hopefully it'll take....

Yet again, Eric takes childish delight in sending me a pic of something which he knows I have no idea as to what it is or what it does. I know where I'd put it though, if he carries on like this.

Anyway, apparently it's a modern seal added to an Austin Healey 100/4...... of course it is....obvious really....

This is the sort of chaos that would make me weep if it landed on my jobs list. Luckily, this madness is bread and butter to our Techs. I am lead to believe that this place was once home to a mouse (who did nothing to keep the place tidy)

Answers on a postcard for this one I'm afraid. Literally no idea. Looks complicated though

Sam eyes up an old Merc 200 Elegance. Wing mirror missing in action...(aftermarket grill & lights? that'll have the Merc enthusiasts spitting blood if I'm wrong)

It's Saturday am and Shrimp Eye has had to do allll this just to get to one bolt. Somebody give that man a brew and a biccie quick-sharp

And so to finish off, a couple of my favourites from the auction sites this week.

Bloody love this race-prepped TR6 on Collecting Cars. Still available!

928 with a quarter of a million k's on the clock. Black with oxblood interior. Want want want

£21k for the best car in the world (in the 70's). Yes, I'd look a complete lemon driving this (especially in my favoured sports casual attire), but Del Boy would be proud

My favourite electric classic.......(you can see what I've done here, can't you.....)

Well that's about it for another week. I'm off to the internet to see if I can convert all my modern conveniences to petrol power. Think there might be something in that.... although the toaster could be tricky.

Safe driving all and we'll see you next week.

Olli