"I do know how to actually operate a motor car, and would prefer to be driving it myself....." brilliant, brilliant, brilliant. Simply the best videos Iain, thanks
As far as I am concerned, there are only two kinds of cars worth a thought: cheap runabouts and wheeled works of art. Both are an equal source of joy to a true petrolhead.
I went to a America in 1988 and bought a 73 Cadillac Coupe..aged 20. Frowned upon and considered a POS, Nowadays...different story..i cant stand car snobbery.
The more I see your videos, the more I admire you, Iain. You are not a toy boy... You are a man of culture, discrete, sophisticated the way it really matters. Thank you!
Indeed. You have expressed a sentiment to which I can relate. Iain creates the emotion, feeling, and appreciation for things that will pass long before our memories of them. As it should be. They are things.........and life is life.....!!!!
The VW Passat estate is worth its weight in gold. I've worked with four photographers and they all own a 10-year-old Passat diesel, with at least 300k miles.They just go on forever, swallow kit, achieve huge MPGs and are cheap to run and repair. However, I'm imagining Iain in the antiques business with the E-Class, transporting Victorian wardrobes around the country! Enlightening!!
I love that you have a 2006-ish Passat, those are very nice. Separation of concern is the issue. Ride fast&expensive for fun, ride reliable&cheap every day.
I totally embrace your philosophy of car ownership. All of my vehicles are at least 10 years old, have at least 150,000 miles on, and none of them are "flash". Lower taxes, lower insurance rates, and inexpensive to maintain. My favorite from the past 10 years or so was a VW Passat TDI 5-speed - white with peeling clearcoat and patches of rust. It was dead reliable and returned 55+ mpg (US). I could park it on the street with the keys in the ignition and no one would give it a second look.
I’d imagine that Espada is going to look glorious in that blue with a black interior. Your car choices seem to be well thought out, love the Mercedes in particular.
Still a very humble man with vast knowledge and experience, and a first class team, total respect, and the fact you admit not all is achievable in house!
All this certainly strikes a chord with me. I'm the third owner of a well-appointed 2010 Mercedes E-Class 350CGI Estate (it took me quite a few months to find a petrol version), paying £13.5k as I recall. I've added 97,000 miles in six years and today it sailed through its MoT at 175,833 miles. I was once told by a Mercedes specialist that it ought to clock up 250k. I had to replace one of the rear air suspension bellows six months ago (£1,200) and there was a big M-B dealer service on 155k which involved replacing a corroded rear subframe (at M-B's expense). But it's a quiet, effortless drive, especially on long-distances. Consumption 35mpg at current M-way speed limits, sometimes better; averaging just under 31mpg otherwise; less around town. And you can fit a double mattress in the back. I think it is probably the high point of the E-Class's development. Newer Mercs I've driven are loaded with needless audible warnings, hazard symbols flashing in door mirrors and, as Iain observes, are pretty ugly. I think my version is also the last E-Class model (W212) with the pointed star on the bonnet. God knows what I'll replace it with.
Just about what I would have anticipated, interesting, practical not (too) flashy or extravagant. Your in, I would guess, a very happy place! That espada will be the best in existence when it’s finished, exactly and precisely as the designer intended or wished for but the factory could never build. The essence of you and a lifetimes knowledge. Please share the journey, I don’t care if it takes 5 years….
The absolute perfect rendition of my belief in car ownership, as in Iain has his cars exactly how I'd have them, nothing new and depreciating, just interesting nice cars that don't cost a fortune. Huge respect.
You had me on the edge of my chair for a while, until you revealed the 360. A very nice selection. I too can not mention a single new car that I covet.
Love your content, and you made my Day with Abarth 124 comment! I just bought one with a 6spd this year, love it, 360 spider is my next goal. Love those cars
Iain you have great taste in my opinion and I’m not too surprised with your collection! Fascinated to see what else you reveal of your transport collection in the future, all the best! 👏😀👍🏍
Fantastic tour of a solid collection with a couple of glorious treats thrown in. I’m intrigued by your hint of “other vehicles”…. Bikes? Boats? Airplanes???! Can’t wait to learn more!
Brilliant watching this Ian. It really shows the type of guy you are. No airs and graces and yet mix with all levels of society using your knowledge and super interesting stories to reel us in and keep us fascinated and entertained! 😊
I have a VW Passat 2.0 TDI and am happy since 2010 when I bought it. Perfect car. Now that I could own my own Ferrari or Porsche, I don't even want anymore as one gets used to such no-frills, no-problems cars like the Passat.
Great to see the W211 and the R230 Mercedes Benz's...MB's from this time were ahead of the pack , and in many ways are still some of the best cars on the road.
Iain, you have a very beautiful fleet and I would have each and every one. I like that the Ferrari is a gated manual and I am waiting for the Lamborghini Espada being finished. Your love of a decent wagon / estate is appreciated.
That R230 Mercedes is the last beautiful SL. It was ruined with the “refresh”. I can’t remember the last time I saw one here in the States. My fav of the lot, Ian. Thanks!
Yes. Even if it never got finished.. 🤔 Are they ever really finished? It would be a great slow trickle of videos that could make a brilliant Playlist on the channel 👍
My own car is a B6 Passat Estate, 2.0 Tdi. A fairly high specification car, Granite Green metallic, heated leather seats, excellent sound system, multifunction steering wheel, 6 speed DSG, and so on, which I bought from it's first owners. It now has over 325,000 klms on it but is still a very, very nice machine to travel long distances in. No rattles or squeaks and everything still works. And I've seen 55mpg from it. One of the nicest cars I've owned.
It is very interesting to see how you appreciate your cars for what they are! And the restoration videos for the F360 Spider (even if they were uncut) would have been a blast! Keep doing it, Mr. Tyrrell!
Thats a very well considered fleet. I own a B6 Passat estate myself and it is brilliant. Huge boot, lots of space for people and its now so old (I bought mine as an ex-demo in 2008) you can leave it anywhere and it doesnt matter. I'm convinced a good estate car and a sports car are the only two things you need (and an off roader i guess if that takes your fancy). Ive got a 987.1 Boxster S for fun and the Passat for everything else. Shout out to the E Class as well. My dads got an S213 E220d and its beautiful and the perfect luxury express with a boatload of practicality if its needed. Really enjoyed the video, thanks Ian!
Really pleased to see that you have a Mercedes in your personal fleet. I have an 03 E320 CDI estate. I've had it for seven years and if it wasn't for this ULEZ carry on, I'd be keeping it for seven more. Mine has a sneaky remap also and is all the better for it. I now consider my motoring street cred to have been considerably boosted! Thanks Iain.
Wonderful! I too have a R230 and in the same colour with black leather, black wood and panoramic roof. I bought it 5 years ago with only 29K miles on the clock and it has now just got to 40K. This summer I went from the UK all the way to the northern tip of Denmark and then down through Germany, Luxembourg and to the South of France and back.
I knew Iain would have an L322 in there. For those in the know, they are utterly fantastic. Perfect choice with the S/C too, the pick of the bunch. Like Harry and JC, I doubt Iain will ever sell it.
Loved this just as much as the all- exotic stuff. The 355 Spider is absolutely lovely, and I dig the scuffs!! I'm in no position to judge anyone's credibility but I'd say it's just gone up by a factor of 10.
Literally teared up on seeing the 360 Spider. That there is one of the nost emotional Ferrari specs I've ever seen (and not to mention the outright *bizzarre* story 😮). The Passat and the 360 are the stars of this video. Period.
Interesting collection of cars Iain. To be able to acquire a project car relatively cheaply and be able to transform it in the way you have must be incredibly satisfying and rewarding. Keep up the good work.
Respect for your healthy attitude to depreciation! Grateful to find I have a ‘fleet’ that partly mirrors your’s! My old VW, plus S124 and R129 Mercs, all with ‘starship’ mileage, get regular use, under the gaze of a garage queen!
Well, I have the utmost admiration for the Tyrell fleet, especially the E320 Wagon (S211/W211) and the R230 SL500. I actually share some of your dislikes for modern cars with all their nanny devices. I love looking at exotic cars and classic cars, but at the end of the day, I would never own them. I just sold my last saloon, a W212 E400 so we are now using a W166 ML400 and a Mitsubishi Pajero Sport V6. Incognito and also very functional.
Yes! Incognito! Well said! I used to travel 150 miles cross country in a 1.25 Fiesta quicker than in any of the 4 x 3.2 Carreras I owned! 😂great man maths reasoning for the Espada. Looking forward to seeing that! SL500 perfect for you: mature elegance . 👌
I have known many mechanics, or mechanic shop owners, in my life (pushing hard into my 70's), and almost to a person their collection of personal vehicles pretty much mirrors what Iain has shown. Mostly very usable early model vehicles for utilitarian purposes, and one or two 'more sporty' vehicles for weekend pleasure, or just something for an early morning drive when the weather is nicer, and you just want to get away. There is almost, again, to a person, at least one or two projects either sitting in the back of the garage, or under a tarp somewhere on the property. Thanks for a great episode Iain. I figured you had to have a Lamborghini sitting around the shop somewhere. Love your 'tongue in cheek' humor in every episode.
I think that's a great collection, and quite close to what I would have expected. The 360 is glorious, love the Merc (both of them); the Range Rover is a bargain. I can't remember, the Passat (?) - iconically utilitarian 👍😁
Iain, your credibility is absolutely top notch, so no concerns there! Agree on the L322. I bought a Supercharged ‘07 back in 2019 with 280,000 miles on it. Used it as a daily driver and took several road trips in it, enjoying every minute0 then sold it still running very well with 335,000 miles on the odometer for $100 more than I paid for it. If only you could have been part of the Metcalfe Clarkson Range Rover video!
In my working life at a well known restoration company . We , like you , did see many customers with valuable exotic performance cars , who had very ordinary family transport . The most memorable being the owner of the " old mother gun' Bentley . His daily drive was a Skoda !! Like you , I prefer older classics like my Stag , and Morris Traveller to name but two . Love the videos. Looking forward to the next ones .
You were holding out on me Tyrrell. We have the same taste and attitude for cars except for the 360 and the Lambada. I’d go with a 430 Berlinetta and a LM002. Tickity Boo! 🇬🇧🦅🇺🇸
I had a friend that had a top of the line 2016 Range Rover brand new and that car was in the shop every two weeks. It was a real lemon. I live in Los Angeles and that is where he bought the car. For my daily I drive a 1997 Toyota 4Runner I bought new in 1997. The car is such a work horse. I had the engine rebuilt at 260,000 miles and I don’t think I will ever sell the car. I also have a manual 2005 Ferrari 430 and a 1967 Triumph TR4A IRS I just love. No rust because it has always been a California car.
Fantastic episode, Iain! I too prefer an analogue daily driver. I'm also Mercedes enthusiast, so my daily is a 1991 W124 300D with a manual gearbox, and it's just perfect. I do all the work on it myself, and it's never let me down! It's still a car from the era when if you take care of it, it takes care of you!
Probably the best video you have done and you have done some stunners! Keep it up Iain, you really involved us in the look and feel of the vehicles in your fleet…. Thanks. 👍🏽
You have a great collection 👍 Makes me feel good about having some very “low key” cars for everyday use and keep the one or two more special for “sunny Sundays”.
Excellent video, the personal touch is great. The ‘mister C’ car and the Ferrari I love the most, great stories. Ever so grateful to Harry Metcalfe for getting you on the Tube, but don’t forget to ‘Take Time Out’😉
Wowee, those seats in the 360 spider are magnificent. Always loved TDF blue in these- my choice too (have a 430 spider in Azzurro California, but really love yours)
Top man. Such humility and comes across as a true gentleman. I am sure he has the option to drive any car he wants yet chooses to drive, as his daily drivers, what most of us have the ability to own. I have lived in Qatar for well over 12 years and own a 2010 Land Rover LR3 4.4 V8 HSE, a 2013 Range Rover Sport 5.0 V8 Supercharged and a 2008 Ford Expedition 5.4 V8 - all not worth more than a decent night out but all provide my wife and me with what we need for taking the dogs to the beach, going shopping, and a bit of fun too - I keep them well serviced and carry out any repairs that are required and they don't cost a cent in depreciation yet all look brand new - not much rain here so no rust.
Great video Iain - love your choices but particularly happy to see a tornado red Passat estate! You've inspired me to pop outside and wash its little brother, my trusty tornado (best colour!) golf gt tdi estate. 101k of utterly loyal service and still going strong - looking forward to the next 101 k. Couldn't agree more about today's vastly over-complex, unengaging and nannying transportation appliances - white goods for the road. No thanks. Now where are m'wellies....
Thank you! I was impressed because all of your cars no matter the mileage all seem to be immaculate A couple of years ago I found myself in a position with the death of my parents of taking their two old Mercedes Like most of your cars the market value on them was next to nothing and yet whatever needed to be done over the years they were sure to have them properly maintained My 2000 E430 is worth maybe two or $3000 and yet people are amazed when they ride in it to see it's 23 years old So I decided just to keep them and enjoy them I also have an old SL that's worth next to nothing-an R129. I even get an occasional thumbs up on the road particularly with the top down You are absolutely right about the Diamler parts situation I can remember when you would go in with your Vin and no matter how old the car was you could get a part The R129 in particular has all these plastic interior parts that all these years in the summer with the top down have exacted a price Trying to find replacements is quite a challenge but I have found a eBay a great resource Actually bought what may very well be the last turn signal switch - new for that car on eBay I also agree with you on the latter styling. It seems to me that most of these cars - Mercedes Benz included - seem to have a generic look to them I have a W212 and looking from the back you can't tell whether it's a Hyundai, a Honda, or a Mercedes My own theory about this phenomenon is that these car makers are all hiring chief stylists outside their own company these days. The 129, for example, was designed by Bruno Sacco who rose within the company for decades and he considers this SL to be his best design. As always I enjoy your presentations and learn quite a bit with each one
Dear Mr. Tyrell, einmal mehr vielen Dank für den interresanten Einblick und die gute Unterhaltung! As you can see on my little icon, I went to your place in July for a quick hello during our trip through the lovely island of GB. But: doors were closed and as I asume you may have been on the other side of the Channel. But at least I could snap a pic in front of your door with my good old fire truck. Thanks and hello from Berlin!
Quite the collection there actually. About contemporary nanny cars..., hear, hear! For me as well, they are so frustrating. As if we are not allowed, or no longer trusted to do our own proper real driving because much of the nanny stuff have become mandatory for manufacturers to pass type approval and comply to safety regulations... I find it most sad. Here on the European continent the majority of cars had been manuals. However, today virtually all cars new are being offered as automatics only, with just a few exceptions. Therefore you'll be finding us in cars from the era you prefer as well. Anyway, wonderful collection Iian. My personal special love usually goes towards the Espada as well. Such a stunning design and with so many beautiful colours to choose from. Thank you so much for this presentation ❤
Always great to see a fellow 360 / F430 lover! I'm on my fourth example now (Nero over Crema F430 coupe). Obviously I am very biased, but outside of ludicrously expensive cars (think CGT, McLaren F1, or perhaps something like a Murci / Aventador), these are the greatest bang for buck sports / supercars available today. Raw, analogue (even the F1 feels analogue compared with any dual clutch), loud, thrilling, still fast, immersive, engaging, madly frustrating at times, wild (they let you play..), they are everything a Ferrari should be. I'm really not sure the modern Ferraris possess these qualities anymore!
Thanks Iain, great to see your cars....I had a 2000 Passat Estate 1.9TDI sport which I sold on as a reliable runner (company car came along) with 384,000 miles under its belt...still ran like a Swiss watch, so there is a good few years life yet in your fine example. Love the SL and the Lambo in particular. Thanks for another great vid. Liking your latest single too! Keep it up!
An L322 is indeed a lovely thing. Have a look under the sill covers and and rear wheel arch liners for rust. Also add drain holes where the electrical boxes are inside on the rear quarter, water gets in and has no where to go and rots from the inside out.
Very neat selections, love it. You might like this as I can’t imagine you didn’t know or at least know of Ted Rutlands of the famous (infamous?) Rutlands Ferrari parts. Ted drove a older Ford diesel truck in the brightest red Ford made. Ted drove to Monterey concourse every year with trailer loads of Ferrari parts with this truck which we all nicknamed ‘the Valdeeze’ in memory of the Exxon oil spill because this truck of Ted’s drank both fuel and oil in large oil spill level quantities
Fantastic video and insight. You clearly choose your cars with care, Iain. Estate cars are not only very practical (we’ve had one in our family fleet for over 20 years, including the eponymous Passat TDi) but they’re increasingly seen as ‘cool’ in a world of identikit SUVs. And who doesn’t love a classic convertible to swan about in. Utterly brilliant sir 👏
Nice selection. Thank you. Never hurts to have a wagon for carting cargo and/or people. I look forward to seeing the Espada in its original colour scheme.
As car enthusiasts we are always curious about which cars other car enthusiasts own and/or enjoy. To me, that generation of E-Classes were the very last really beautiful Mercedes-Benz cars and that really catched my admiration. Would love to own one of these in Sedan version but they are getting really old, in the 20+ years range, its hard to get one in a almost new condition (and a reasonable price) and that's when everything starts to fail all over the place and I'm not a mechanic. My '85 190D 2.0 already gives me enough "old car" troubles. But they are trully beautiful and elegant - it is a Mercedes that looks like a Mercedes and not anything else as more modern models - in and out and must drive like a dream...or at least they look like it.
I kept looking at the Jensen Interceptor in the background. I grew up in West Bromwich and used to see them being road tested along Kelvin Way back in the day. Nice set of cars by the way...
"I do know how to actually operate a motor car, and would prefer to be driving it myself....." brilliant, brilliant, brilliant. Simply the best videos Iain, thanks
I already had immense respect for Iain, however that has gone up even further in learning the vehicles he chooses to drive. What a fantastic person.
He's a God amongst men
You mean because he has great taste?
As far as I am concerned, there are only two kinds of cars worth a thought: cheap runabouts and wheeled works of art. Both are an equal source of joy to a true petrolhead.
I went to a America in 1988 and bought a 73 Cadillac Coupe..aged 20. Frowned upon and considered a POS, Nowadays...different story..i cant stand car snobbery.
2001 1.7l 5-door Honda Civic hatchback. Best car I've ever owned.
If it could tow a caravan id still drive one - beaming with pride!
100%
Modern stuff can’t touch the 60+mpg from those PD Diesel Passats
Exactly.
It makes me so happy to see Ian owns an old lambo. They suite him so well.
Iain what a super fleet - sensible, considered, exciting and challenging. The story of that 360 is something. Great video.
Iain your credibility has just gone through the roof. What a cool fleet of cars. Much respect.
The Ferrari and Espada back to life series will be great content!
That E class wagon is awesome!
The more I see your videos, the more I admire you, Iain.
You are not a toy boy...
You are a man of culture, discrete, sophisticated the way it really matters.
Thank you!
That is a most encouraging message. Thank you!
Thank you Ian, I'm one of the people that requested this video.
I emailed you some months back.
Thank you.
Respect for doing this episode. This puts the reality behind the halo cars you bring to our screens.
Indeed.
You have expressed a sentiment to which I can relate.
Iain creates the emotion, feeling, and appreciation for things that will pass long before our memories of them.
As it should be.
They are things.........and life is life.....!!!!
The VW Passat estate is worth its weight in gold. I've worked with four photographers and they all own a 10-year-old Passat diesel, with at least 300k miles.They just go on forever, swallow kit, achieve huge MPGs and are cheap to run and repair. However, I'm imagining Iain in the antiques business with the E-Class, transporting Victorian wardrobes around the country! Enlightening!!
What I see there is the fleet of a true mechanic at heart. Thanks Iain!
There is no need to change a car if it fits your needs and is fully functional - and you like it. You show that well with your collection Iain.
Thank you Ian for letting us into your garage of cars
Watching this makes me feel better for driving a 17 year old Astra 1.8 SRI estate, which I bought when it was 6 months old.
Respect 🙂
I love that you have a 2006-ish Passat, those are very nice. Separation of concern is the issue. Ride fast&expensive for fun, ride reliable&cheap every day.
I totally embrace your philosophy of car ownership. All of my vehicles are at least 10 years old, have at least 150,000 miles on, and none of them are "flash". Lower taxes, lower insurance rates, and inexpensive to maintain. My favorite from the past 10 years or so was a VW Passat TDI 5-speed - white with peeling clearcoat and patches of rust. It was dead reliable and returned 55+ mpg (US). I could park it on the street with the keys in the ignition and no one would give it a second look.
I'd love to see a RUclips build series of your Espada's refurbishment! Can't wait to see it back in the original colour, it sounds amazing.
I’d imagine that Espada is going to look glorious in that blue with a black interior. Your car choices seem to be well thought out, love the Mercedes in particular.
The interior on your 360 is absolutely breathtaking Iain. What a spec!
Starting off the video with a red B6 can only mean good things! Far more interesting then another exotic.
Still a very humble man with vast knowledge and experience, and a first class team, total respect, and the fact you admit not all is achievable in house!
All this certainly strikes a chord with me. I'm the third owner of a well-appointed 2010 Mercedes E-Class 350CGI Estate (it took me quite a few months to find a petrol version), paying £13.5k as I recall. I've added 97,000 miles in six years and today it sailed through its MoT at 175,833 miles. I was once told by a Mercedes specialist that it ought to clock up 250k. I had to replace one of the rear air suspension bellows six months ago (£1,200) and there was a big M-B dealer service on 155k which involved replacing a corroded rear subframe (at M-B's expense). But it's a quiet, effortless drive, especially on long-distances. Consumption 35mpg at current M-way speed limits, sometimes better; averaging just under 31mpg otherwise; less around town. And you can fit a double mattress in the back. I think it is probably the high point of the E-Class's development. Newer Mercs I've driven are loaded with needless audible warnings, hazard symbols flashing in door mirrors and, as Iain observes, are pretty ugly. I think my version is also the last E-Class model (W212) with the pointed star on the bonnet. God knows what I'll replace it with.
This is one of the most refreshing car videos I've seen in many years, simply fantastic!
Just about what I would have anticipated, interesting, practical not (too) flashy or extravagant. Your in, I would guess, a very happy place! That espada will be the best in existence when it’s finished, exactly and precisely as the designer intended or wished for but the factory could never build. The essence of you and a lifetimes knowledge. Please share the journey, I don’t care if it takes 5 years….
Agree, would love to see the Espada progress and also your paint person at work.
Hi Iain what a great collection, it's nice to see someone not scared by mileage!!
Nice little fleet you've got there! A Ferrari, a Lamborghini, and some everyday useful vehicles.
The perfect mix too!
The Espada will present stunningly in its original colour. Looking forward to seeing its progress.
The absolute perfect rendition of my belief in car ownership, as in Iain has his cars exactly how I'd have them, nothing new and depreciating, just interesting nice cars that don't cost a fortune. Huge respect.
Thank you- much appreciated
Love the 360 Spider
I just got a beater 2007 BMW X3 for $500 and I love it the most out of all the other Ms and Alpinas lol
An old RR and an E Class Merc estate. The signs of proper old money.
What does mean "old money" ?
@@monsterkillsports3499 What a question!
sans noveau riche
It means you used to have money@@monsterkillsports3499
You had me on the edge of my chair for a while, until you revealed the 360. A very nice selection. I too can not mention a single new car that I covet.
I’d really enjoy a series on the paint and body work you’re planning for the 360! Nice change of pace with this video, Iain, well done!
Love your content, and you made my Day with Abarth 124 comment! I just bought one with a 6spd this year, love it, 360 spider is my next goal. Love those cars
Iain you have great taste in my opinion and I’m not too surprised with your collection! Fascinated to see what else you reveal of your transport collection in the future, all the best! 👏😀👍🏍
Fantastic tour of a solid collection with a couple of glorious treats thrown in. I’m intrigued by your hint of “other vehicles”…. Bikes? Boats? Airplanes???! Can’t wait to learn more!
Brilliant watching this Ian. It really shows the type of guy you are. No airs and graces and yet mix with all levels of society using your knowledge and super interesting stories to reel us in and keep us fascinated and entertained! 😊
I have a VW Passat 2.0 TDI and am happy since 2010 when I bought it. Perfect car. Now that I could own my own Ferrari or Porsche, I don't even want anymore as one gets used to such no-frills, no-problems cars like the Passat.
Great to see the W211 and the R230 Mercedes Benz's...MB's from this time were ahead of the pack , and in many ways are still some of the best cars on the road.
That is probably the nicest specced 360 I have ever seen. The blue seat centres are incredible!
Iain, you have a very beautiful fleet and I would have each and every one. I like that the Ferrari is a gated manual and I am waiting for the Lamborghini Espada being finished. Your love of a decent wagon / estate is appreciated.
I have a petrol I 6 E320 wagon. Great cars. The Bentley in the background looks so nice.
Keep producing great content Iain! Absolutely love it 😄
The joys of owning a big boys sweet shop and the thing’s available. Still a beautiful collection and for all the right reasons! 😍👍🏽
Thoroughly enjoyable and a joy to behold. Thank you for the opportunity to see your personal collection.
That R230 Mercedes is the last beautiful SL. It was ruined with the “refresh”. I can’t remember the last time I saw one here in the States. My fav of the lot, Ian. Thanks!
Would love to see regular/irregular updates of your Espada
Yes. Even if it never got finished.. 🤔 Are they ever really finished? It would be a great slow trickle of videos that could make a brilliant Playlist on the channel 👍
My own car is a B6 Passat Estate, 2.0 Tdi. A fairly high specification car, Granite Green metallic, heated leather seats, excellent sound system, multifunction steering wheel, 6 speed DSG, and so on, which I bought from it's first owners. It now has over 325,000 klms on it but is still a very, very nice machine to travel long distances in. No rattles or squeaks and everything still works. And I've seen 55mpg from it. One of the nicest cars I've owned.
It is very interesting to see how you appreciate your cars for what they are! And the restoration videos for the F360 Spider (even if they were uncut) would have been a blast! Keep doing it, Mr. Tyrrell!
Iain, thank you for taking the time to share your vehicles, they’re lovely.
Thats a very well considered fleet. I own a B6 Passat estate myself and it is brilliant. Huge boot, lots of space for people and its now so old (I bought mine as an ex-demo in 2008) you can leave it anywhere and it doesnt matter.
I'm convinced a good estate car and a sports car are the only two things you need (and an off roader i guess if that takes your fancy). Ive got a 987.1 Boxster S for fun and the Passat for everything else.
Shout out to the E Class as well. My dads got an S213 E220d and its beautiful and the perfect luxury express with a boatload of practicality if its needed.
Really enjoyed the video, thanks Ian!
Really pleased to see that you have a Mercedes in your personal fleet. I have an 03 E320 CDI estate. I've had it for seven years and if it wasn't for this ULEZ carry on, I'd be keeping it for seven more. Mine has a sneaky remap also and is all the better for it. I now consider my motoring street cred to have been considerably boosted! Thanks Iain.
That was a nice surprise! Look forward to seeing the Espada in the original paint!
Wonderful!
I too have a R230 and in the same colour with black leather, black wood and panoramic roof. I bought it 5 years ago with only 29K miles on the clock and it has now just got to 40K.
This summer I went from the UK all the way to the northern tip of Denmark and then down through Germany, Luxembourg and to the South of France and back.
I knew Iain would have an L322 in there. For those in the know, they are utterly fantastic. Perfect choice with the S/C too, the pick of the bunch. Like Harry and JC, I doubt Iain will ever sell it.
Loved this just as much as the all- exotic stuff. The 355 Spider is absolutely lovely, and I dig the scuffs!! I'm in no position to judge anyone's credibility but I'd say it's just gone up by a factor of 10.
Literally teared up on seeing the 360 Spider.
That there is one of the nost emotional Ferrari specs I've ever seen (and not to mention the outright *bizzarre* story 😮).
The Passat and the 360 are the stars of this video. Period.
Teared up....wtf?...why?
Interesting collection of cars Iain. To be able to acquire a project car relatively cheaply and be able to transform it in the way you have must be incredibly satisfying and rewarding. Keep up the good work.
Respect for your healthy attitude to depreciation! Grateful to find I have a ‘fleet’ that partly mirrors your’s! My old VW, plus S124 and R129 Mercs, all with ‘starship’ mileage, get regular use, under the gaze of a garage queen!
Well, I have the utmost admiration for the Tyrell fleet, especially the E320 Wagon (S211/W211) and the R230 SL500. I actually share some of your dislikes for modern cars with all their nanny devices. I love looking at exotic cars and classic cars, but at the end of the day, I would never own them. I just sold my last saloon, a W212 E400 so we are now using a W166 ML400 and a Mitsubishi Pajero Sport V6. Incognito and also very functional.
Yes! Incognito! Well said! I used to travel 150 miles cross country in a 1.25 Fiesta quicker than in any of the 4 x 3.2 Carreras I owned! 😂great man maths reasoning for the Espada. Looking forward to seeing that! SL500 perfect for you: mature elegance . 👌
I have known many mechanics, or mechanic shop owners, in my life (pushing hard into my 70's), and almost to a person their collection of personal vehicles pretty much mirrors what Iain has shown. Mostly very usable early model vehicles for utilitarian purposes, and one or two 'more sporty' vehicles for weekend pleasure, or just something for an early morning drive when the weather is nicer, and you just want to get away. There is almost, again, to a person, at least one or two projects either sitting in the back of the garage, or under a tarp somewhere on the property.
Thanks for a great episode Iain. I figured you had to have a Lamborghini sitting around the shop somewhere. Love your 'tongue in cheek' humor in every episode.
I think that's a great collection, and quite close to what I would have expected.
The 360 is glorious, love the Merc (both of them); the Range Rover is a bargain.
I can't remember, the Passat (?) - iconically utilitarian 👍😁
Iain, your credibility is absolutely top notch, so no concerns there! Agree on the L322. I bought a Supercharged ‘07 back in 2019 with 280,000 miles on it. Used it as a daily driver and took several road trips in it, enjoying every minute0 then sold it still running very well with 335,000 miles on the odometer for $100 more than I paid for it. If only you could have been part of the Metcalfe Clarkson Range Rover video!
In my working life at a well known restoration company . We , like you , did see many customers with valuable exotic performance cars , who had very ordinary family transport .
The most memorable being the owner of the " old mother gun' Bentley . His daily drive was a Skoda !!
Like you , I prefer older classics like my Stag , and Morris Traveller to name but two .
Love the videos.
Looking forward to the next ones .
You were holding out on me Tyrrell. We have the same taste and attitude for cars except for the 360 and the Lambada. I’d go with a 430 Berlinetta and a LM002. Tickity Boo! 🇬🇧🦅🇺🇸
Thanks for the tour Iain. The Espada sounds like an interesting project involving the color change. Hope you’ll keep us updated.
I had a friend that had a top of the line 2016 Range Rover brand new and that car was in the shop every two weeks. It was a real lemon. I live in Los Angeles and that is where he bought the car. For my daily I drive a 1997 Toyota 4Runner I bought new in 1997. The car is such a work horse. I had the engine rebuilt at 260,000 miles and I don’t think I will ever sell the car. I also have a manual 2005 Ferrari 430 and a 1967 Triumph TR4A IRS I just love. No rust because it has always been a California car.
Fantastic episode, Iain! I too prefer an analogue daily driver. I'm also Mercedes enthusiast, so my daily is a 1991 W124 300D with a manual gearbox, and it's just perfect. I do all the work on it myself, and it's never let me down! It's still a car from the era when if you take care of it, it takes care of you!
Cars by Alan Partridge! Beautiful collection.
Probably the best video you have done and you have done some stunners!
Keep it up Iain, you really involved us in the look and feel of the vehicles in your fleet…. Thanks. 👍🏽
You are a treasure for people like myself who resonate with every bit of motoring detail you share.
You have a great collection 👍 Makes me feel good about having some very “low key” cars for everyday use and keep the one or two more special for “sunny Sundays”.
Excellent video, the personal touch is great. The ‘mister C’ car and the Ferrari I love the most, great stories. Ever so grateful to Harry Metcalfe for getting you on the Tube, but don’t forget to ‘Take Time Out’😉
Wowee, those seats in the 360 spider are magnificent. Always loved TDF blue in these- my choice too (have a 430 spider in Azzurro California, but really love yours)
Top man. Such humility and comes across as a true gentleman. I am sure he has the option to drive any car he wants yet chooses to drive, as his daily drivers, what most of us have the ability to own. I have lived in Qatar for well over 12 years and own a 2010 Land Rover LR3 4.4 V8 HSE, a 2013 Range Rover Sport 5.0 V8 Supercharged and a 2008 Ford Expedition 5.4 V8 - all not worth more than a decent night out but all provide my wife and me with what we need for taking the dogs to the beach, going shopping, and a bit of fun too - I keep them well serviced and carry out any repairs that are required and they don't cost a cent in depreciation yet all look brand new - not much rain here so no rust.
The 360 is my favourite car-would love to see a series on the restoration.
Great video Iain - love your choices but particularly happy to see a tornado red Passat estate! You've inspired me to pop outside and wash its little brother, my trusty tornado (best colour!) golf gt tdi estate. 101k of utterly loyal service and still going strong - looking forward to the next 101 k. Couldn't agree more about today's vastly over-complex, unengaging and nannying transportation appliances - white goods for the road. No thanks.
Now where are m'wellies....
Thank you! I was impressed because all of your cars no matter the mileage all seem to be immaculate
A couple of years ago I found myself in a position with the death of my parents of taking their two old Mercedes
Like most of your cars the market value on them was next to nothing and yet whatever needed to be done over the years they were sure to have them properly maintained
My 2000 E430 is worth maybe two or $3000 and yet people are amazed when they ride in it to see it's 23 years old
So I decided just to keep them and enjoy them
I also have an old SL that's worth next to nothing-an R129.
I even get an occasional thumbs up on the road particularly with the top down
You are absolutely right about the Diamler parts situation
I can remember when you would go in with your Vin and no matter how old the car was you could get a part
The R129 in particular has all these plastic interior parts that all these years in the summer with the top down have exacted a price
Trying to find replacements is quite a challenge but I have found a eBay a great resource
Actually bought what may very well be the last turn signal switch - new for that car on eBay
I also agree with you on the latter styling. It seems to me that most of these cars - Mercedes Benz included - seem to have a generic look to them
I have a W212 and looking from the back you can't tell whether it's a Hyundai, a Honda, or a Mercedes
My own theory about this phenomenon is that these car makers are all hiring chief stylists outside their own company these days.
The 129, for example, was designed by Bruno Sacco who rose within the company for decades and he considers this SL to be his best design.
As always I enjoy your presentations and learn quite a bit with each one
Dear Mr. Tyrell, einmal mehr vielen Dank für den interresanten Einblick und die gute Unterhaltung! As you can see on my little icon, I went to your place in July for a quick hello during our trip through the lovely island of GB. But: doors were closed and as I asume you may have been on the other side of the Channel. But at least I could snap a pic in front of your door with my good old fire truck. Thanks and hello from Berlin!
Quite the collection there actually. About contemporary nanny cars..., hear, hear! For me as well, they are so frustrating. As if we are not allowed, or no longer trusted to do our own proper real driving because much of the nanny stuff have become mandatory for manufacturers to pass type approval and comply to safety regulations... I find it most sad. Here on the European continent the majority of cars had been manuals. However, today virtually all cars new are being offered as automatics only, with just a few exceptions. Therefore you'll be finding us in cars from the era you prefer as well. Anyway, wonderful collection Iian. My personal special love usually goes towards the Espada as well. Such a stunning design and with so many beautiful colours to choose from. Thank you so much for this presentation ❤
Always great to see a fellow 360 / F430 lover! I'm on my fourth example now (Nero over Crema F430 coupe). Obviously I am very biased, but outside of ludicrously expensive cars (think CGT, McLaren F1, or perhaps something like a Murci / Aventador), these are the greatest bang for buck sports / supercars available today. Raw, analogue (even the F1 feels analogue compared with any dual clutch), loud, thrilling, still fast, immersive, engaging, madly frustrating at times, wild (they let you play..), they are everything a Ferrari should be. I'm really not sure the modern Ferraris possess these qualities anymore!
Thanks Iain, great to see your cars....I had a 2000 Passat Estate 1.9TDI sport which I sold on as a reliable runner (company car came along) with 384,000 miles under its belt...still ran like a Swiss watch, so there is a good few years life yet in your fine example. Love the SL and the Lambo in particular. Thanks for another great vid. Liking your latest single too! Keep it up!
That Ferrari 360 is wonderful love the spec.
Good on you for saving the Ferrari 360. It's a nice spec.
An L322 is indeed a lovely thing. Have a look under the sill covers and and rear wheel arch liners for rust. Also add drain holes where the electrical boxes are inside on the rear quarter, water gets in and has no where to go and rots from the inside out.
Very neat selections, love it. You might like this as I can’t imagine you didn’t know or at least know of Ted Rutlands of the famous (infamous?) Rutlands Ferrari parts. Ted drove a older Ford diesel truck in the brightest red Ford made. Ted drove to Monterey concourse every year with trailer loads of Ferrari parts with this truck which we all nicknamed ‘the Valdeeze’ in memory of the Exxon oil spill because this truck of Ted’s drank both fuel and oil in large oil spill level quantities
Didn’t know but thanks for educating!
Fantastic video and insight. You clearly choose your cars with care, Iain. Estate cars are not only very practical (we’ve had one in our family fleet for over 20 years, including the eponymous Passat TDi) but they’re increasingly seen as ‘cool’ in a world of identikit SUVs. And who doesn’t love a classic convertible to swan about in. Utterly brilliant sir 👏
What a wonderful and varied collection, thank you for sharing.
As genuine as Ian himself, what a gentleman
Love that SL 500, in my eyes R 230 is the last great SL.
A fine selection of cars for Iain there. Absolutely none bring any shame to his taste and style.
Nice selection. Thank you. Never hurts to have a wagon for carting cargo and/or people. I look forward to seeing the Espada in its original colour scheme.
Lovely video, I can't wait to see the new colour on that Espada (sounds like it could be a long wait!)
Iain, I had 4 Passat Variants, and I loved them! Good to See yours!
As car enthusiasts we are always curious about which cars other car enthusiasts own and/or enjoy.
To me, that generation of E-Classes were the very last really beautiful Mercedes-Benz cars and that really catched my admiration. Would love to own one of these in Sedan version but they are getting really old, in the 20+ years range, its hard to get one in a almost new condition (and a reasonable price) and that's when everything starts to fail all over the place and I'm not a mechanic. My '85 190D 2.0 already gives me enough "old car" troubles. But they are trully beautiful and elegant - it is a Mercedes that looks like a Mercedes and not anything else as more modern models - in and out and must drive like a dream...or at least they look like it.
Iain’s enthusiasm for a car’s basic personality (aside from flash and dash) is contagious!
I kept looking at the Jensen Interceptor in the background. I grew up in West Bromwich and used to see them being road tested along Kelvin Way back in the day. Nice set of cars by the way...