Solid Project: 1973 Jaguar E-Type 2+2
The Jaguar E-Type is renowned for two things. Firstly, it is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful cars ever built. Secondly, they can quickly turn into a financial black hole the moment the subject turns to restoration. However, this 1973 E-Type 2+2 could be an exception to that last rule because it is a solid classic requiring little beyond some cosmetic love. It runs and drives, with its mechanical configuration promising a relaxed classic motoring experience. It needs a new home and an owner willing and able to commit the time and money to recapture its former glory. Therefore, the seller has listed the Jag here on eBay in Independence, Oregon. Bidding sits below the reserve at $15,000, but the frantic action means the situation could change rapidly.
The color palette evolved throughout the E-Type’s fourteen-year production cycle, with the Old English White paint gracing this car’s panels first appearing in 1970. The paint shows age, with plenty of small marks and defects. However, it is far from the worst I have seen, and it would be fascinating to see how it would respond to a wet sand and polish if the winning bidder opts for preservation over restoration. That is a valid approach because this car is that seemingly rare breed of an E-Type project candidate not riddled with rust issues. The exterior looks clean, while the underside shots reveal no problems that could cause the new owner nightmares. There is corrosion on mechanical components like the exhaust and brake lines, but the undercoat on the floors and other structural components is intact. The glass is in good order, and the lack of deterioration visible on the beautiful wire wheels suggests they won’t require a specialist inspection. The seller indicates new trim and chrome items are included, as well as a new back window rubber.
This E-Type’s interior looks pretty sad, which could be the most expensive aspect of its restoration. It is complete, and the only visible aftermarket addition is a radio/cassette player. However, a total retrim is required, and this will make eyes water. The buyer needs to brace themselves because while kits are available to return the inside of this classic to its former glory, they must be prepared to spend over $6,000 to achieve that goal. That is undeniably a lot of money. However, if treated respectfully, a properly installed kit should survive for many decades. Therefore, that must be considered a long-term investment rather than a short-term goal. The original owner ordered this Jaguar with air conditioning, a significant positive point for an interior not renowned for exceptional airflow on hot days.
I sometimes look at these later E-Types and wonder whether there was a secret competition amongst Jaguar engineers to see who could shoehorn the most pipes and hoses under the hood. There are so many it is virtually impossible to spot the 5.3-liter V12 hiding beneath. This motor produced 241hp and 285 ft/lbs of torque in its prime. That fed the rear wheels via the optional three-speed automatic transmission, with power steering adding to the effortless driving experience. The 1973 E-Type remained an excellent performer, although the impact of emission regulations meant it couldn’t match the early model’s 150mph top speed. The seller states this gem has sat in its current location for twenty years. It runs, drives, and has a claimed 78,000 genuine miles on the clock. Its most pressing need is some brake work because the pedal is spongy. The lack of regular use means there will probably be other tasks awaiting the new owner, but it appears they will start the revival process from a solid base.
Gauging the popularity or desirability of some classics can be challenging, but there are no such dangers with this 1973 Jaguar E-Type 2+2. It has already attracted an impressive seventy-one bids, confirming that plenty of people like what they see. The 2+2 is not the most popular model, but they suit an enthusiast with a couple of young children who want to share the classic motoring experience. If you fit that description, is this a car you might consider pursuing further?
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Comments
Sharp car. Drove one many years ago
Sharp car. Drove one many years ago 6 volt system is alittle tricky thou !!
It has a 12 volt system. No Jaguar ever had a 6 volt system. My 1938 MG Tickford has 12 volt.
Sorry Rob. British cars haven’t had a 6V system since the mid 40’s and no Jag certainly. You may have had a tricky electrical system but it definitely was not 6 V.
Maybe Rob’s was “upgraded” to 6 volts . . .
Methinks that that Sir Lucas the Black Knight of Darkness may have decided that 6 volts was more than enough voltage on any given day.
Iconic auto, junk the motor, trans and replace with a Chevy 350 and a Tremec 5 speed. Then redo the interior. Now you’ll have something to drive daily without the nagging question on whether your AAA towing is up to date.
Can we please cease and desist with the SBC conversions ?
Not every vehicle needs a Chevrolet
Engine !!!
I agree!
A small block Ford would get everyone ticked off!
By fitting a SBC mill and a 5 speed gearbox, apart from ruining “the” classic car of all classic cars of it’s era, you have just about halved the value of the Jaguar E Type that you have just bought! Also, I have NEVER seen an E Type Jaguar being towed.
I worked at a British Leyland dealership.
We only towed them in during the dark of night.
We also hired two Italian Ferrari mechanics to work on these exclusively.
The drive Volkswagens.
Then it’s no longer iconic. The V12 makes it so. Lose that and it’s just another bastardized POS.
They say the British don’t make tvs because they haven’t figuted out how to make them leak oil!! Love the XKES
POS indeed !!
Ferrari said the original e type was possibly the most best car shape
NOT the elongated 2+2 which in my opinion ruined the lines
Solos never seen a e type being towed probably right most are flatbedded as they are too dainty to be lifted
Auto is a turn off
I had a neighbor that had an early e type v-12 stick he bought new he said it was awesome but burned more oil than gas but he still loved the car
Ferrari said the original e type was possibly the most beautiful car shape
NOT the elongated 2+2 which in my opinion ruined the lines
Solos never seen a e type being towed probably right most are flatbedded as they are too dainty to be lifted
Auto is a turn off
I had a neighbor that had an early e type v-12 stick he bought new he said it was awesome but burned more oil than gas but he still loved the car
JZ2 swap EFI w/duel stage turbos rip out the interior cage it for chassis stiffness & torque new wiring harness & dash gauge setup your choice of Trans.
Rims tires brakes Brembo – suspension bushings – go wild w/paint dark Brandywine is rich w/saddle leather or Deep Jade green Some like the Silver Blue Lemans look
Plain silver is a head on collision waiting blends to the road to much.
Course Ferrari Red always looks good.
That white is a Dead color
And by doing all of that you have built one worthless XKE.
You need very deep pockets to bring this one back to life. Very deep …
This car is going to need a lot of money thrown at it. The 2+2 is not a high dollar classic no matter how much money you put into it. As an owner of a jag e type roadster for over forty years, buyer beware of this one.
It might not be a high dollar classic at the present time but when the early coupes and roadster prices are reaching for the sky then people will be left with the 2+2 as their only affordable option and their prices will then go up!
Nah Solo I respectfully disagree 2+2= ugly and ugly will never go up dramatically especially with an auto plenty of other more sporting models to choose from