[Boxer]

Anyone owned a Jaguar E-Type? Huge PR on them in the UK right now as it is the 50th Anniversary of the launch. Prices seem to range from GBP 25K to 150K. How are they to drive and how easy to live with?

[cribbj]

I owned two, a '68 and a '71, with the '68 being the more desirable. Jag were trying to comply with US emissions and changed down from triple SU's to twin Strombergs and they just didn't get it right. In the process of detuning, the 4.2 even wound up with less power than the 3.8. The body was to die for, of course, and when everything was right (which was once a blue moon) to take the car out on the twisties and feel the big six torque steering its way through the turns was truly impressive. The exhaust note was one of the sweetest burbles I've ever heard, also.

The Lucas Electrics were a legend unto themselves. Ferrari certainly don't have the market cornered on poor wiring as long as Lucas still exist.

Other problems were very poor rust treatment of the chassis and body panels. There's no question that a vintage Jag will have rust, it's just how much, and whether it's too far gone to rescue.

Gorgeous cars, but the only way I'd own another would be from a complete restoration with rust proofed panels and frame, plus a complete rewire with a contemporary wiring harness gold connectors, etc. and a completely new instrument package.

Definitely a pair of the worst, but most memorable cars I've ever owned.

[Killer58]

Boxer,

First, as Cribb states, they are still one of the sleekest and most recognizable cars on the road. As if I need we need to tell you that… The E-Type is in the midst of a renaissance at the moment, do doubt in part because of its anniversary. Prices are all over the map, ranging all the way from $20K to $175K. Here in the US, there have been waves of speculators who drive up prices only to be followed by a market crash. We’re seeing the beginning of another cycle. Reminds me of the 246 Dino market….

I've had eight British cars, five of them Jaguars, ranging from an XK-150S to an XJS Convertible. While I haven't had an E-Type, I've spent plenty of time repairing a few and still have my 64 MK II, which uses many of the same bits as an E-Type. Forty-six years on, it’s one of the smoothest, most elegant cars I’ve ever driven. It turns heads every bit as much as my Spider does. And it is as low maintenance as it gets.

I think the Prince of Darkness reputation is a bit overrated. No debate that the 70’s were a difficult time for Sir William and crew. With the one-two punch of emission laws and quality issues during the Leyland years, I again agree with Cribb, 70s-era cars should be avoided unless you buy a completely restored example. But to me, a 60s-era car, particularly a Series I ½ or II, 4.2 litre should be on everyone’s automotive Bucket List. There is nothing else like them on the planet. And like F-cars, they are better the more you drive them.

I say get one while they’re still affordable. You won’t regret it.

[jrbaldwin]

I own a 1971 E-Type v12 2+2. I upgraded it with EFI, Custom programed ECU from Roger Bywater, 5 speed, headers & high flow exhaust without cats. In the last 4 years have only had to replace a fan temp switch and the brakes reaction valve. It is a very fast fun car to drive.

James Baldwin

[Jimmy Chen Shiba DDS]

A classic British car, indeed. Especially luv the living room like interior of the cars of this era. w/ smiles Jimmy

[Boxer]

Thanks for all the insights............off to do a bit more research now.

[550v12]

I've had a variety of them for the last 34 years. First one was a daily driver back then. Currently have a couple of V12 roadsters. Will have one of them at Chelsea so can give you more info then.

[Granucci]

I got to see several of them this July at our little car show, and as always they are iconic and IMO a car to get. I love the 1968+ pre 70 models entirely.

Will always be a classic in the upper 10% IMO.

[Boxer]

Originally Posted by 550v12

I've had a variety of them for the last 34 years. First one was a daily driver back then. Currently have a couple of V12 roadsters. Will have one of them at Chelsea so can give you more info then.

Excellent and thanks.

[Boxer]

I have kept an eye on the E-type market over the last several months. Now that the 50th anniversary is over, prices seem to be softening. Next spring might be a good time to seriously consider one.

[550JM]

series II 1969
sold it. They are fairly ok in maintenance when you take good care of them. Parts are available in Europe

[Boxer]

Originally Posted by 550JM

series II 1969
sold it. They are fairly ok in maintenance when you take good care of them. Parts are available in Europe

Should be OK, tons of Jag specialists all over the UK.

[JazzyO]

I think I will own one one day. I just melt when I go onto the Eagle website.

Onno

[Boxer]

Originally Posted by JazzyO

I think I will own one one day. I just melt when I go onto the Eagle website.

Onno

They are just beautiful.

[Otter]

I have had two convertables, many years ago but still cherish the drives with them, had a 62, too much rust, then a 66 black w/red interior, just right and with the glass covered headlights, got it up to 145, previous owner shaved an ignition key head to fit into the back of a knob, it was cool because then you just turn the proper knob and push the start button and off you go without dangling keys and knowone was the wiser!!!! Otter

[Boxer]

Originally Posted by Otter

I have had two convertables, many years ago but still cherish the drives with them, had a 62, too much rust, then a 66 black w/red interior, just right and with the glass covered headlights, got it up to 145, previous owner shaved an ignition key head to fit into the back of a knob, it was cool because then you just turn the proper knob and push the start button and off you go without dangling keys and knowone was the wiser!!!! Otter

Is there a big difference in terms of rusting between the early E-types and those from the mid 60s?

[Otter]

Well the 62 was from an estate sale and was abandoned in a very damp leaky backyard garage, even the leather was eat up and cracked by 72, the 66 was better cared for but still needed body work and a respray. There are places in E-types that don't drain well, hold moisture etc... my experiance is from the early 70's, as someone said earlier a total resto would be the way to go, I could cry now cause I got the 62 for $3000, and the 66 on trade for a diamond ring worth 4, I have never had another car that stirred my soul like that, Funny it only wanted to run right on the most expensive fuel Sunoco 260 at 38 cents a gal compared to 27 cents at the cheap gas stations, Otter

[ryanl]

beautiful pics here. my father's British and has owned a couple back in the day and bought a '62 when it first came out in England. and yep, still talks about it! I do have to get one eventually just from hearing about them since i was a kid.

[tazandjan]

Henry Manney: The greatest crumpet catcher of all time. Appropriate for a beautiful, unique, and extremely quick car. Nobody ever tried to copy it. Who could?

[ryanl]

Originally Posted by tazandjan

Henry Manney: The greatest crumpet catcher of all time. Appropriate for a beautiful, unique, and extremely quick car. Nobody ever tried to copy it. Who could?

"Crumpt catcher" -great quote. i'll pass it onto my dad he'll love it. (he'll probably claim he invented it too