I had a '77 MGB and my dad had an MGB, a few Triumph Spitfires and a Fiat Spider. They all required frequent tinkering, but the common joke we shared with other MG owners was "an hour behind the wheel, 2 hours under the wrench" ... at least until you upgraded the electrical components.

I still loved driving it and loved the sound of the engine. IMO they are cars with a soul.

The nice feature about Spitfires is the bonnet with wings (hood with fenders) that tilt in unison revealing a handy perch (the tyre) to sit upon wilst one is contemplating mucking about with the carburettors.