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Speaking of XKE Automatics

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Mark Sigfrinius

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O.K. Say I find a 1968 XKE 2+2 with the automatic. I hear they have two Stromberg carbs and a fairly good suspension. Has anyone driven one of these enough to comment on whether they "get up and go" or are they a little doggie? Again, I'm looking for a little room for my wheelchair and from pictures the +2 appears to have some back room room. (SO CLEAVER) They are almost affordable and probably will not gain in value alot but it's still an XKE isn't it? I have located one down in California at what I think is a reputable dealer (?) for around $20,000 and they state it is of very good driver quality which is what I'm looking to buy. Any assistance would be LOVELY! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/crazy.gif
Mark
 
Hi Mark,

Many people keep the Zenith-Stromberg carbs and seem to like them. The car will have plenty of pep with them. Any E-type pulls like crazy. Others switch over to triple SU's and report an increase in performance, but be prepared to spend in excess of $1500 just for the carbs, not including the work to install them.

As for pricing on the car itself, the Classic Jaguar web site has some suggested prices here: https://www.classicjaguar.com/evalue.html

Razz
 
They do have two Strombergs. Never driven one but I have never heard of any E-type being referred to as a dog. They are heavier than a roadster of course, but that helps with traction, most of the weight increase being over the rear wheels. They do have more space, but were not as pretty as a result.....I think that they are beautiful personally, as there is no such thing as an ugly E-type.

You should ask the assistance of the California-based members, I'm sure they would be able to check on the credentials of the vendor for you, maybe even eyeball the car, save you a journey if it's a tarted-up heap.
 
Thanks Razz. If two Strombergs work O.K. why spend the $1,500 plus? I checked on the valuation and they were real close to the asking price. I also may check with the Seattle or the Portland Jag Clubs to see if any of their members may be selling an appropriate car...Mark
 
Steve.....Thanks for the suggestion. I'm sure there is a Jag guy I can find in California (dealer is near San Diego) who could take a spin and check the XKE out for me. I agree that there isn't a bad looking XKE even if they need paint and the chrome wheels are rusty. I know someone out there has the right car for the right price. Tally Ho
 
Mark, $20k seems more than a little high for a 2+2 auto. Mind you they are still great cars, but for $20l it better be close to show condition.
Here's a EType Price Guide from a guy I trust. Hope this helps.

Basil
 
Dear Mr. Basil,
I looked at that price guide web site and I came up with $15K to $18K for a good driver. Was I looking at the right line? Usually those dealers can be a bit high too, however, they haven't called me back on the particular XKE I saw and inquired about. That usually means it was sold. There will be others come along but I will use that guide to assist. Thanks......Mark
 
I want to add my footnote, NO E Type was ever a dog!! Even with twin ZSs and automatic. The ZS carbs are very precision carburetors and do not lack performance. The automatic in a E Type is a three speed. $20K is a top price for a 2+2 and the car should be in first class condition both mechanically and cosmetically. Average condition 2+2s never sell for over $12K to $15K. Check the car out very closely.
 
Good advice John. I will most certainly follow it closely. Because I have never owned an XKE I will find someone who has and take them with me when I get a prospect.
 
Back in 1976I owned an XKE 2+2 (albeit a 4 speed) and it was a hoot to drive. I believe the 2+2 has a lower final drive that makes up for the added weight.It still had plenty of top end. Mine had the 3 SU set up. I used to drive across the Hanford reserve at a buck and quarter for almost one hour straight on my way to the UW. It got 23 MPG on the hiway.I did not have A/C.I think a good drive can be had for aaround 12k. I have a fiend in Walla Walla who is a mechanical engineer and is in a chair and he put an automatic in a 3.8 XKE coupe. Contact me offlist for details, I am sure he could be of assistance to you.Heck you probably know him he was the city engineer
 
I must say that I'm amazed there is anyone on the British Car Forum who would mention Walla Walla!!! My great grandfather opened a scrap-metal biz there, brought my grandfather over from Russia to Walla Walla, which is where my father grew up, as well (and made the run back and forth to UW many times.)I still have some relatives there, but I personally haven't been there since 1996 when my aunt passed away.
 
Yep...Walla Walla is still there and is a growing city. Sorry about the delay in reply. I've been buzy doing my real job! Now I don't know about doing 125 now-a-days. The State Patrol might just not understand. My MK1 Sedan has cruised at 110 and blew the doors off a 1976 Pacer Wagon headed in the same direction! I thought I passed a fish bowl. Anyway, eastern Washington has lots of great roads for touring. Walla Walla would be a great place for a Jag meet or even a bit farther and we could have one in Goldendale. I know the Mayor! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/driving.gif
 
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