Andy G. Is there any chance you can find out if they are talking about a specific version of the car/engine. I ask because I did hear a similar comment but it was with respect to the 4.8 more than the others.
The 4.4 286 (Series1) had camshafts, non variable.
The 4.4 330bhp (Series 2&3) had variable inlet which was oil driven and had a collector in the sump to drive it. Not known for having oil supply problems.
The Series 4/Max/Coupe/SS/5 had the 360bhp engine which had the bigger sump and double vario-cam which did need a good pressured oil feed.
I have heard of a few 4.8 sump poundings resulting in starvation. I am on my third sump on the Coupe now. You DO know when you hit something!
As Peter mentions the oil filter house also gets a good grinding in some cases. They then have to grind it off as the but gets the wear.
I would not say this is impractical compared to any other high performance car and far better than many, it just needs to be treated with a bit of respect and care on sharp kerbs, gate mounts etc.
Next time I spank it a sump guard will be going on at the same time. Both items are not cheap but far cheaper than a new 4.8 short engine.
