[John Fitzpatrick]

I've owned a TR-3, two E Jags, and a Lotus and I've come to the conclusion that you have to like English sports an awfully lot to put up with them. Here's a few reasons why.

The TR was an absolute joy for a 16 year old boy to drive around in. On the other hand, the plug-in side curtains only kept some of the snow out, and because it had no heater, it didn't melt but just swirled around inside. This was a disadvantage on a first date.

The 1st Jag was an absolute joy for a 21 year boy to dtive around in. It was wonderfully powerful and very forgiving, but that combination encouraged you to believe that you were a much better driver than you actually were, leading to several near-death experiences.

The 2nd Jag was a gift to my 1st wife, who, it turned out, didn't like shifting a manual transmission, especially one that wouldn't go from 2nd to 1st unless you stopped the car. She sold it and bought a Pacer, which led to some spirited discussion and throwing of things. If the 3.8L had had a synchronized transmission, we might still be married.

I'm still working out why I love the Lotus more than I hate it, so in the meantime lets hear some of the reasons why you loved/hated your English sports cars.