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The E-Type was an instant hit when it launched in 1961, and its iconic body shape is instantly recognisable. Produced until 1974, split into three phases, 72,528 E-Type Jaguars were produced, but at the end of 2022, only 4,649 remained registered for use on the roads in the UK.
Most E-Type Jags are fitted with a straight six engine with three shiny SU Carburettors, apart from the last to roll off the production line, the Series 3, which was fitted with a striking all aluminium V12 with a four-speed gearbox bolted on behind. The earliest models with the 3.8L engine had partial synchromesh gearboxes, meaning a basic understanding of double-declutching gear changes into first gear is necessary, but not difficult to master. On all other E-Types you will find a four-speed gearbox with synchromesh on every gear, or in some very rare cases, an automatic gearbox. As with most cars produced over many years, there were many changes incorporated over the time. A lot was done to accommodate the US market as, perhaps unsurprisingly, the E-Type was a hit across the Atlantic as it was here!
One very desirable feature of the E-Type is simply the fact that, when released, it topped out the speedo at 150mph, which is be more than enough to comfortably keep up with modern day traffic. The interior (of a good example) is the typical Jaguar experience. Plush leather seats, and simple but elegantly designed interior invite the driver and passengers in. Two large gauges behind the steering wheel relay the speed and RPM to the driver, flanked on the centre console with four smaller gauges reporting charging, fuel, oil pressure and water temperature, all of which are crucial for the driver to keep an eye on in even the most perfect of examples! However perhaps the most important of factors when it comes to driving experience is the choice between ‘Fixed Head Coupe’ or the convertible ‘roadster’. For some, the image of an E-Type is simply that of the convertible roadster, but there are certainly those who covert the Fixed Head Coupe with the large hatch-back boot. Although perhaps not immediately obvious, for those used to the braking performance of modern vehicles, disc brakes on every wheel as standard will be much appreciated. Another modern touch to the E-Type is the independent rear suspension, which contributes to the smooth ride often associated with the E-Type.
So, when it comes to buying an E-Type, what should I be looking out for? Well, the bane of the existence of any classic car owner is the dreaded four-letter word… Rust. With the earliest models reaching sixty years old, if previous owners have not been proactive in treatment and prevention of rust, what looks on the outside to be a superb specimen, may not quite meet expectations down the line. Many cars have a basic chassis with bodywork attached to it, however an E-Type is a monocoque design, meaning the chassis and bodywork is all one unit, the bodywork is the chassis. It is therefore worth getting any prospective purchase thoroughly inspected. Getting a car on a ramp is one of the best ways of uncovering any signs of unsympathetic repairs or attempts to cover up problems that may not be immediately apparent. Additionally, if you have not driven an E-Type before, particularly a good example, it may not immediately be apparent if there are any issues presenting themselves when you take the car on a road test. Here at Bill Rawles Classic Cars we can offer comprehensive inspections of all aspects of any purchase you are considering to make sure you know what you are buying. It is important to consider if a car has been sitting for extended periods of time as classic cars in general do not respond well to not being used. If you are looking to tinker on your E-Type on a warm summer’s evening, and whilst this is possible at the front of the vehicle with the mammoth bonnet revealing the whole engine bay, the rear of the car is not quite as simple. The rear brakes are inboard of the suspension, meaning it is more difficult to gain access. Thankfully though, if whilst tinkering you find something needs replacement you’ll be pleased to hear that there are several large companies supplying all the parts you could need, but for anything you feel could be slightly beyond your abilities, or anything safety critical we have the expertise to take care of this for you.
So now down to the crux of the matter, cost. As with anything, you get what you pay for. When it comes to E-Types, there is no such thing as an easy restoration due to the monocoque body, so a car marketed as such could possibly be one to avoid. Series 1 E-Types are typically the most sought-after models, especially those with the 4.2L engine with the fully synchromesh gearbox. A freshly restored Series 1 could be £150,000 or more, with a Series 2 or 3 in similar condition fetching anything from £75,000 onwards. For ease here is a general overview of what you can expect to pay depending on condition:
Restoration – Up to £40,000
On the road - £30,000 - £60,000
Good – Series 1 – £75,000 – £100,000, Series 2/3 - £60,000 - £80,000
Excellent - Series 1 – £100,000– £200,000, Series 2/3 - £80,000 - £125,000
Every car is different, and a particular car with desirable heritage, low milage or unusual factory features could fetch considerably more, but as a guide this is what you could expect to pay, but it is important to remember that a car marketed as excellent may have hidden horrors so it is crucial to spend the extra time getting a second opinion.
As ever, if you have any questions, or if this has sparked your desire to fill that space in the garage with a glistening E-Type, then give us a call and we can help you through every step of the process.