1960s Sports Car Maintenance

Here are 5 of the top 1960s sports cars to consider for your collection, along with the common issues each model had back then and might still have today. If you own one or plan to buy one, Mapt Automotive is your go-to specialist for maintaining these classic beauties.

1961 Jaguar E-Type

The Jaguar E-Type, also known as the XK-E in the U.S., debuted in 1961 to universal acclaim. Its combination of breathtaking design and groundbreaking performance made it an instant icon. Enzo Ferrari himself called it "the most beautiful car ever made." You may remember it from the movie "The Italian Job!"

Performance Specs

• Engine: 3.8-liter inline-six producing 265 horsepower. Paired with triple SU carburetors, the engine could propel the car to thrilling speeds.
• Quarter-Mile Time: Approximately 15.5 seconds, remarkable for its time.
• Transmission: A 4-speed manual gearbox offering precise shifts and exceptional driver engagement.

Design & Style

• Aerodynamic Shape: The long hood, covered headlights, and sleek body give the E-Type a timeless silhouette.
• Convertible and Coupe Options: Whether you opt for the open-air experience or the sleek hardtop, the E-Type is stunning in any form.
• Color Palette: British Racing Green, Old English White, and Carmen Red were popular choices, complementing the luxurious leather interiors.

Why Buy in 2024-2025?

• Timeless Design: The E-Type’s style is unmatched, and its value continues to appreciate.
• Cultural Impact: Featured in films and owned by celebrities, the E-Type is a cultural icon.
• Performance: Even by today’s standards, it’s a thrilling car to drive.

Common Issues

• Overheating: The E-Type’s cooling system struggles in modern traffic. Many owners upgrade radiators and fans.
• Electrical Gremlins: Lucas electrics earned the nickname “The Prince of Darkness” for their unreliability.
• Rust: Corrosion is a constant concern, especially in the floor pans and sills

1963 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray (C2)

The second-generation Corvette introduced the Sting Ray design, marrying aggressive styling with advanced performance. The 1963 model, with its iconic split rear window, remains one of the most collectible American cars. You probably saw this Chevy Corvette Sting Ray in the latest Batman movie and Fast Five too!

Performance Specs

• Engine: Options ranged from a 327 cu in V8 producing 250 hp to a fuel-injected version with 360 hp.
• Quarter-Mile Time: Around 14.5 seconds, making it a force on the drag strip.
• Transmission: Available in both 4-speed manual and 2-speed Powerglide automatic.

Design & Style

• Split-Window Coupe: Unique to the 1963 model year, this feature is a hallmark of automotive design.
• Lightweight Fiberglass Body: Innovative for its time, the Sting Ray’s construction reduced weight and enhanced performance.
• Convertible Option: For those who prefer the wind in their hair, the convertible version is equally striking.

Why Buy in 2024-2025?

• Collector Appeal: The 1963 split-window coupe is a blue-chip investment.
• Performance: The Sting Ray blends muscle car power with sports car handling.
• Iconic Design: Its aggressive styling still turns heads today.

Common Issues

• Vacuum-Operated Headlights: Prone to failure, requiring regular maintenance.
• Fiberglass Stress Cracks: Over time, the body panels can develop cracks.
• Steering Issues: The early models had heavy steering, often needing upgrades to modern systems.



1964 Porsche 911

Introduced as a replacement for the 356, the Porsche 911 quickly became the brand’s flagship model. Its rear-engine layout and iconic silhouette have defined Porsche’s identity for decades. You've seen the 64' Porsche 911 featured in Bad Boys and the 1970 film "Le Mans."

Performance Specs of 64’ Porsche 911

• Engine: Air-cooled 2.0-liter flat-six producing 130 hp, paired with twin Weber carburetors.
• Quarter-Mile Time: Approximately 16.0 seconds, showcasing its balance of speed and agility.
• Transmission: 5-speed manual, a rarity in the 1960s.

Design & Style

• Timeless Silhouette: The sloping roofline and round headlights remain instantly recognizable.
• Lightweight Construction: Designed for performance, the 911 featured aluminum and steel panels.
• Minimalist Interior: Function took precedence, with a focus on driver engagement.

Why Buy in 2024-2025?

• Heritage: The 911’s legacy continues to grow, making early models highly desirable.
• Driving Pleasure: Lightweight and responsive, it’s a joy to drive.
• Investment: Values of early 911s have skyrocketed, and the trend shows no signs of slowing.

Common Issues

• Oil Leaks: Common around valve covers and crankshaft seals.
• Rust: Especially in the battery tray and floor pans.
• Synchro Wear: Early gearboxes often suffer from worn synchronizers, leading to difficult shifts.



1967 Shelby Cobra 427

The Shelby Cobra 427 perfectly fuses American V8 power and lightweight British design. Created by Carroll Shelby, this car is as brutal as beautiful. For car movie buffs you'll see this vehicle in many movies but the most memorable was Gumball Rally in 1976.

Performance Specs

• Engine: 7.0-liter Ford V8 delivering a staggering 425 hp.
• Quarter-Mile Time: Around 12.4 seconds, making it one of the fastest cars of its era.
• Transmission: 4-speed manual for complete driver control.

Design & Style

• Aggressive Stance: Wide fenders and a low-slung body give the Cobra a menacing look.
• Open Cockpit: Minimalist and functional, designed for performance above all else.
• Lightweight Chassis: Built from aluminum, the Cobra is exceptionally light and agile.

Why Buy in 2024-2025?

• Performance: Few cars from the 1960s can match its raw power.
• Exclusivity: Original Cobras are rare, with values exceeding $2 million.
• Racing Pedigree: Built for the track, it’s a legend in motorsport history.

Common Issues

• Overheating: The massive engine generates significant heat, often necessitating upgraded cooling systems.
• Frame Cracks: The lightweight chassis can develop stress fractures over time.
• Braking Issues: The original drum brakes struggle with the Cobra’s power, often requiring disc brake upgrades.

1969 Ferrari Dino 246 GT

Named after Enzo Ferrari’s late son, the Dino 246 GT marked a shift toward mid-engine sports cars. Its elegant design and balanced performance make it a standout in Ferrari’s history.

Performance Specs

• Engine: 2.4-liter V6 producing 195 hp, with a melodic exhaust note.
• Quarter-Mile Time: Approximately 14.7 seconds, showcasing its balanced performance.
• Transmission: 5-speed manual, delivering smooth and engaging shifts.

Design & Style

• Pininfarina Design: Curvaceous and flowing, the Dino is widely regarded as one of Ferrari’s most beautiful designs.
• Mid-Engine Layout: A first for Ferrari road cars, providing excellent weight distribution.
• Luxurious Interior: Leather upholstery and elegant gauges exude sophistication.

Why Buy in 2024-2025?

• Affordability: Compared to V12 Ferraris, the Dino offers a more accessible entry point.
• Driving Dynamics: The mid-engine layout provides exceptional handling.
• Investment: As appreciation for the Dino grows, its value continues to climb.

Common Issues

• Rust: Despite its beauty, the Dino is prone to corrosion.
• Electrical Problems: Faulty wiring can lead to unreliable performance.
• Engine Overheating: The V6 engine requires meticulous maintenance to prevent overheating.



Your Classic Sports Car Mechanics in Reno!

These 1960s classics are more than just cars—they’re rolling pieces of art and engineering. Each comes with its unique challenges, but with proper care from experts like Mapt Automotive, they’ll remain timeless treasures for generations to come.

For expert guidance and maintenance services tailored to your classic vehicle, contact us at Mapt Automotive today. Let us help you keep your automotive dream alive!