Hi learned people!

A very general question for you...

How complicated/difficult is the 850 and what is parts availability like?

I currently have a 1970 500F which I adore but bought it mainly as a "hobby" to learn mechanics etc. I have muddled through various things but am still very much a beginner - I haven't tackled engine/gearbox removal, bodywork etc but have stripped/rebuilt the carb, removed the head, replaced thermostat housing, fuel pump, replaced the brake drums/cylinders and done some minor electricals etc. Obviously the 500 is pretty basic and "simple" though.

I do find the car fun but obviously quite slow for modern traffic and not exactly roomy for more than one so difficult to share.

I was thinking of exchanging for a good condition 850 Spider but am concerned that this may be beyond my skills and that parts may be difficult (500 parts are fairly cheap/easy to get). I've also received loads of help and advice from the friendly 500 forum here and would need to rely on the 850 forum if I went ahead! Not a major resto but would want to "tinker", do minor/major servicing and carry on learning.

Just after some thoughts to help me decide!

Thanks all
(and hope you are all well and keeping safe)

Andrew

Mechanical parts are easily come by as the 5, 6 and 850 share some parts, braking parts and things like that. Panels and doors you will pay more for then the 500.

Engine for little bits of tinkering are fine. Lot of trial and error but they are fairly forgiving with the exception of the carb. That is a little bolted together bit of head scratching fun!

If you were buying one to weld and restore be prepared to shell out for panels, if you are buying one that's on the road and just to play with there to me is little to them.