Last summer I submitted a simple idea that everyone ought to drive a car like my 1973 MGB.

I argued at the time that universal ownership of this class of car would lead to a number of good  outcomes:

I left an important issue out of that analysis: the reliability of mechanical linkage.

The problems that appear to be blowing up the once-solid reputation of Toyota Motors are electronic. The electronically governed throttle in eight Toyota models may be failing, leading to uncontrollable acceleration. Electronic brake controllers in the hybrid Prius may be responding slowly in bumpy conditions.

Neither catastrophe could happen in my MG. Unless I turn on the lights, the only critical electric component of that car is the fuel gauge. And that works. Now.

When I press the accelerator, it pulls a cable that is directly attached to the throttle on the carburetors. There is a strong and simple return spring that closes the throttle when the cable goes slack. When I press the brake, the linkage pushes a piston inside an hydraulic cylinder that creates pressure through the hydraulic lines to each wheel, where a caliper or shoe creates friction to slow the car.

Yes, the MG fails to automatically adjust fuel mixture for optimum emissions. There is a manual choke, but I recognize it's not as clean. Yes, there is no power boost to the braking system. However, the car is light enough for foot pressure to stop it, much like Fred Flintstone's car.