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V12 E-Type; Should I?

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Rick O.

Rick O.

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From a TR6 owner who adores (but knows very little about) XKE's. Well, there's a green V12 sitting on all four flat tires outside rusting away near my house. I hate to see this happen! I know so little about these cars that I don't know what year it is. Aside from the very high expense, is this a desirable restoration target? The body is straight but rusting in several areas. The interior looks very good, none of the gauges/switches have been cannibalized. All the glass appear in good order. I couldn't open the bonnet, but I could see the tops of 2 SU's through the louvres so I know the engine is there.

I know I have given you very little information, but are we talking about a $5K, $10K, or what purchase offer to get it out of the field?

Thanks.
 
The E-Type in its later V-12 form was more of a grand-touring car than a sports car per se, but these are still very desirable cars, and this doesn't sound too far gone.

A couple of things....firstly, for the car to have been neglected in this way there must have been a sizeable problem, probably engine-related. Wonderful engines, but you can't neglect them as you would an American V-8. Having said that, you can get nice used V-12 lumps to go in there, alternatively use the V-8 option. Secondly, these cars, though repairable, are expensive to restore. Do it right though and you will have a gorgeous, useable exotic car that you will love to death!

price-wise, you should be looking at $2K maximum for a car in this condition....that is if it's a roadster.....lots less for the coupe. If the guy wants more, walk away. $5-$10K will net you a decent useable 2+2. Good luck!

[ 10-22-2003: Message edited by: Steve ]</p>
 
Steve...please point me to a driveable 2+2 at $5k..I'm not being facetious - I want one!
 
Maybe I was a little optimistic on the low end....but I think I may be close. There was a one-owner low-mileage jobbie that came up on here about a year ago that would have sold for $10.....only fault bwas that it hade been prepped for a respray that had never happened.......I am certain that $5K would not be too optimistic if the circumstances were right......maybe a little on the rough side but still useable......roadsters are a law unto themselves
grin.gif
 
I found one locally for $12k that needed a repaint...ran like a bat out of h@!!...would love to get one for under $10k but don't think I'll do that
 
The V-12 Jag is a great car, but to do a proper restoration, be prepared to spend some serious $$$ (I know, I had a V-12 restoration project car once). If it is a convertible it would be a more tempting find, but the 2+2's, while nice, are not worth near what the roadsters are.

Basil
 
Thanks for the feedback. I obviously overstated what I thought this XKE would be worth in its present condition. Got bitten by that "Home & Leisure" show on the XK resto. Will let you all know what I find out.
 
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