engine catching fire....common?

If you want perfection find the cheapest Japanese car built in the largest numbers. That is as close to automotive perfection as you will ever find.

Looking for perfection in limited production, hand built, exotic cars is like trying to find ethical, honest politicians in Washington.

Good F'ing luck.

 

MGB's are notorious fire hazards beginning with the catalyst (1975) models. The carb's right over the cat - doesn't take much of a leak. Restoration shops are frequently cleaning up charred engine bays.

Lol.

Also, more generally, I'd say Ferraris tend to stick around a lot longer than other cars. 1985 Honda Civics all have 200,000 miles on them have meet the crusher. Ferraris just have more time to grow old. Older Mercedes also tend to be used forever, and I've seen roaring roadside blazes with a couple of them. Very good cars, just old fuel lines.

 

I'm surprised nobody brough up the Audi 90 and 100. You were guaranteed an engine fire!