Series 3 petrol starting "issue"

Hi - I have recently bought a 1983 88" 2.25 petrol. Everything seems OK but... When starting it - the thing turns over but will not fire until i let go of the key!! This sometimes fires the first time, sometimes second but normally done by the third!! Is this normal??

Thanks

check battery - the starter might be pulling the voltage down to low to give you a proper spark from coil - when you release key the starter motor stops pulling current and allows more juice to your plugs....just a guess

If you are saying it seems to start when you release the key to the normal running position. I had this problem when I bought mine. Previous owner had fitted a new Britpart switch that turned out to be faulty.
Either check that you have a 12volt supply at the coil when starter is turning or hot wire the coil and see if it starts.
Hope above helps.

Almost certainly a faulty ignition switch