Telstar 1985/AR - Engine noises

[Flokos]

Hello everyone,
I've got a Telstar 1985/AR model and I've noticed engine noises suddenly, when I've started the motor. I cannot pinpoint the source of the noise but I'm not sure if it's electrical.
The car has done 210,000kms and with no apparent warning (slight noises, etc), it decided to revolt! No petrol contamination, no gear box problem - smooth gear pickup, good power. T-Bar gear selection changed while in parking and noise changed slightly. Reverse and forward car movement didn't stop the noise.
Interestingly, as I've started the motor, the ignition key (barrel) was hard to rotate and when it did and the engine started, the brakes light indicator stayed on. I've recently checked the brakes pads and had no problems with thickness, no brake fluid leak. Transmission oil is still pink.
Any assistance will be appreciated. Thanks, Flokos

[dirty hands]

too many possibles
have the tappets adjusted
check all engine mounts
look at exhaust pipes and muffler for cracks
has the cam/timing belt been replaced ?
change the brake fluid

[Flokos]

Hi 'Dirty Hands', thanks for the reply. Over the weekend, I thought over the matter. With no history of noises developing louder, I thought it to be an electrical problem. So, I've tracked back my observations: I've noticed with the ignition key that as I rotated it to the 'Start' position, it stayed there as the key 'barrel' was stuck. As soon as I've started the motor and heard the noises, I've rotated the ignition key back to the 'Off' position. Perhaps the noise was coming from the starter motor... So, I've disconnected the battery cables, lubricated the ignition key barrel with some 'sewing machine oil' and gently rotated the ignition key - I didn't have any graphite.. The oil was a MIRACLE. Now, the ignition key rotates freely and the spring inside the key mechanism pushes it back from the 'Start' to the 'On' position with no sticking.
I'm posting this for the benefit of all TELSTAR owners. Thanks for your help. Fofico.