Motors & Me: John Porter

John Porter tells the Irish Examiner about his 1930 Riley Nine Brooklands and about his love of cars and tinkering with them.

What are you currently driving?

I’m driving a 1930 Riley Nine Brooklands. One of the main characteristics of the Riley is the low centre of gravity thanks to the underslung chassis, with the chassis bars running under the back axle.

My everyday car is an Opel Manta GTE. It’s the fifth one I’ve owned. I completely rebuilt it. I did my apprenticeship in Crawford’s Garage, Dunleary, Co Dublin in 1977. I’ve spent most of my childhood in garages with my late and lamented father, John N Porter.

Love at first sight, or just a means to get from A to B?

It was definitely love at first sight. It’s artful and exciting to drive. It’s also of historical interest.

What’s under the bonnet?

It’s a 2-litre injected. They don’t need any modification, they are fast and exciting enough — without being earth shattering. The engine was very advanced for its time and still competes and beats Alfa Romeo, Bugatti and Adler for about quarter of the price.

Petrol head or Sunday driver?

I’m a petrol head. I wish people would use their vintage cars more. Driving is one of life’s great pleasures.

What was your first car?

My first car was a 1965 Triumph Spitfire Mark 2. I loved it. I was 15 when I learned how to drive it at Mondello Park. At the time, my father was testing the Riley on a practice day.

What else do/did you own?

I also own a 1952 500cc Formula 3. It’s a very potent, methanol powered, single- seater racing car. They handle like a very heavy and aggressive kart, big fun.

Dream drive in dream location?

Dream drive — across Germany in a De Tomasso Pantera (Italian sports car developed by De Tomasso from 1971 to 1991) and on down into Italy for dinner.

Passenger you’d most like on a long journey?

Maybe Kylie Minogue, she wouldn’t weigh much.

Passenger you’d least like?

To be honest, not crazy about passengers — they just slow you down.

What’s on your playlist?

Playlist includes most of the punk era also Jayne’s Addiction and a lot of the 80s. Can’t resist U2’s The Joshua Tree, Unforgettable Fire and most of the lads stuff.