Jaguar E-Type

Magazine Subscription

Subscribe to Classic Motoring Magazine and save over 20%

Subscribe NOW

Available at all good newsagents including WHSmith

• AN ALL TIME GREAT • VALUES SOARING • EXPENSIVE TO RESTORE

WHY BUY?

An E-type is most all time favourite classic car – need we have to say anymore?

DRIVING

E-type set new standards back in 1961 but handling isn’t Porsche precise, being inherently soft, and the Jag is more GT than sports car. V12 is an acquired taste as its character is completely different.

WHAT TO PAY

Ignoring basket cases, the cheapest way to buy is to look for a US ex-pat or an S3 starting from around £15,000 although V12s have really started to climb. Reckon on £25K upwards for a fair S1/S2 and top cats now sell for double this but prices are levelling off.

GENERAL

Don’t buy the first you see and drive a few to get a feel for the thing, as cars will differ due to their age, condition etc.

BODY AND CHASSIS

The biggest rust traps are around the tub, chassis sections and particularly the rear suspension radius arm mounts, located to the back of the floorpan. Inspect inside of the fuel filler flap! E-type experts say that this region is often missed on a quick once-over and yet it can tell you a good deal.

ENGINE

Biggest problems are corroded waterways, subsequent overheating, worn timing chains, silent tappets, oil leaks, especially from that well-known weak spot, rear crank oil seal.

RUNNING GEAR

Rear suspension wear will lead to rear-steer. The complex coil-over shocks and inboard disc brakes mean rebuilds cost in excess of £1000. The torsion bar front setup needs to be checked for wear and correct height. Check the universal joints and the bushes for excessive play as deterioration ruins the handling.

BEST MODEL? 3.8 Roadster
WORST MODEL? LHD 2+2 auto
BUDGET BUY? 2+2 or S3
OK FOR UNLEADED? Usually
SPARES SITUATION? Superb
DIY EASE? No real problems
CLUB SUPPORT? Eleven out of ten
APPRECIATING ASSET? Values soared but levelling off