MK2 lover, but... what about an E type?

[herger]

Dear All,

good evening!
I am starting a new post: last year I was looking for an MK2 an found a plausible candidate, but it didn't go... (thanks again to @LarryK for all Your precious support, kindness and patience!!).
Now I would like to start my search back, but a new idea came to my mind...
Even though the MK2 remains in my heart, since there is the possibility of sharing The Car with my brother, we may "shift" to an E type.
However, there are some open issues, I would kindly ask for some recommendations for:
1) I am 6' 7'': I tried a series 2 OTS and even crouched down, the back of my head was well above the hood: should we opt for a 2+2 coupe? I mean: I have not tried any 2+2, do You think I may fit in?
2) Considering the 2+2, I would ask some advices on the 1.5, 2 and 3 series. The 3rd series should have more room inside and would allow to fulfill a childhood dream of having 12 cylinders, but I don't know much about such an engine. I know that the 3.8 and 4.2 are very sturdy and reliable, what about the 12 cylinder?
We would search only the manual transmission, no automatic: better the first engines or after 1973 (even if the exhaust pipe does not display the fan of 4 pipes)?
3) What are the main "Achille's hills" of the V12? Is it reliable and what about the running costs (also compared to an MK2 3.8)? What about the suspensions, clutch, brakes and the locations to better detect the rust-conditions of the body?

Many many thanks in advance to anyone willing to help a Jaguar enthusiast (and his brother!!)
My very best regards!

Herger

 

[malbaby]

Big difference in price....Value for money and comfort, MK2 always.

 

[herger]

Big difference in price....Value for money and comfort, MK2 always.

Thanks, this is of course true.
For the price, in Italy and at the moment, the E (those I said, series 2 or 3 coupe) costs pretty much twice the MK2.
To go a little deeper: would You recommend a Series 2 2+2 with the 4.2 or a Series 3 with the V12? The V12 should be more prone to over-heating, isn't it? I am not the type to race with a 50-year old Lady, the problem would be the previous owners... Is there any frequent issue with the 4.2?
I am excluding the series 1.5: I don't know much about it... some recommendations?
Thanks in advance and best regards

Herger

 

[malbaby]

If I was intending to buy an E type, it would be the Series 2 2+2 with the 4.2.
Great looking car with well balanced handling....V12 engines can be a nightmare for major repairs, and of course much heavier and more suited to a saloon.

 

[LarryK]

Only E- type a 6'7" person can sit in is a coupe. At 6'3" my eyes were level with the windshield frame. At 6'7" your head would be above the windshield a bit much for driving comfort and pedals would have to be modified. A 2+2 would give you some legroom but cramoed.

 

[herger]

Only E- type a 6'7" person can sit in is a coupe. At 6'3" my eyes were level with the windshield frame. At 6'7" your head would be above the windshield a bit much for driving comfort and pedals would have to be modified. A 2+2 would give you some legroom but cramoed.

Great, Larry!
You are always kind and precious!
Best regards