E type buying advice
Discussion
E-Type prices are still rising, though they are very varied and rising slower than they have been. There are quite a few to choose from but it is definitely worth looking at hiring a specialist to look over any car you're considering buying. There are a lot more cheaper LHD and auto versions now but you should avoid those if you're looking for investment as well as enjoyment, they will go up just not as quickly.
My advice - for a "safe" investment, you really need to be looking at the best restored Series 1 OTS or Coupe that you can afford. The market is a minefield, btw; I'd subscribe to the E Type Forum for a wealth of advice including values, foibles, recognised specialists etc.
I have a Series 1 2+2 under restoration at the moment. It is unlikely to pay me back what I put into it in my lifetime but it is a labour of love.
HTH
Peter
I have a Series 1 2+2 under restoration at the moment. It is unlikely to pay me back what I put into it in my lifetime but it is a labour of love.
HTH
Peter
Hi! I know I'm a little late to the thread, but if you haven't bought yet, hopefully I can be of some help.
I have a 1969 SII OTS. I didn't buy as an investment, but it has worked out rather nicely that way. That said, I still drive it most any chance I get. Such a visceral car, and a blast to drive. If you can stretch for it, a SI, particularly '61-'67 is your best bet investment wise. That said, aa SII still has big upside potential. As the prices keep rising it will only serve to bring SII prices up as well, as the driving experience is largely the same.
The SII has better cooling and brakes than an SII, and '69 was the first year they offered power steering and air conditioning. I'm sure those two options are very rare and will bring up the cost, but from a driving perspective mine doesn't have power steering, and is heavy in a parking lot, but feels great once you get moving. I have never driven an E-Type with power steering, so can't advise on it.
I'm sure you know by now common things to look for, such as rust, cooling issues, etc. I had an aluminum radiator put in mine and it has been great. If you aren't set on strict originality it is a sensible upgrade. Also, they have inboard rear disks, so it would be good to get one that has already had new rear brakes put on, as it gets pricey.
I had my alternator replaced with a more modern GM alternator. Again, not fully original, but has made day to day use easier.
If you are getting one from the US the SII was sold here with 2 ZS carbs vice the 3 SU's for emissions reasons. They're not a bad carb set up, but are down on power and don't look or sound as good as the SU's. I'm planning on switching over to an SU set up eventually. I have heard of some guys switching to Webber carbs, but have had problems with set up. If you can get them well set up they sound great though, especially at WOT.
When I got mine I much prefered the OTS, but the 2 seater coupe has really grown on me. I think either one is a win.
I can't really advise on specialists for you, as I am located in the US.
Honestly they're truly epic cars and you'll have a blast, while hopefully also netting a couple dollars (pounds rather) in the process. I've had mine 7 years now and have been lucky enough to road trip it several times and actually put it to use. If you have any questions feel free to PM me. Always glad to help. Happy hunting!
I have a 1969 SII OTS. I didn't buy as an investment, but it has worked out rather nicely that way. That said, I still drive it most any chance I get. Such a visceral car, and a blast to drive. If you can stretch for it, a SI, particularly '61-'67 is your best bet investment wise. That said, aa SII still has big upside potential. As the prices keep rising it will only serve to bring SII prices up as well, as the driving experience is largely the same.
The SII has better cooling and brakes than an SII, and '69 was the first year they offered power steering and air conditioning. I'm sure those two options are very rare and will bring up the cost, but from a driving perspective mine doesn't have power steering, and is heavy in a parking lot, but feels great once you get moving. I have never driven an E-Type with power steering, so can't advise on it.
I'm sure you know by now common things to look for, such as rust, cooling issues, etc. I had an aluminum radiator put in mine and it has been great. If you aren't set on strict originality it is a sensible upgrade. Also, they have inboard rear disks, so it would be good to get one that has already had new rear brakes put on, as it gets pricey.
I had my alternator replaced with a more modern GM alternator. Again, not fully original, but has made day to day use easier.
If you are getting one from the US the SII was sold here with 2 ZS carbs vice the 3 SU's for emissions reasons. They're not a bad carb set up, but are down on power and don't look or sound as good as the SU's. I'm planning on switching over to an SU set up eventually. I have heard of some guys switching to Webber carbs, but have had problems with set up. If you can get them well set up they sound great though, especially at WOT.
When I got mine I much prefered the OTS, but the 2 seater coupe has really grown on me. I think either one is a win.
I can't really advise on specialists for you, as I am located in the US.
Honestly they're truly epic cars and you'll have a blast, while hopefully also netting a couple dollars (pounds rather) in the process. I've had mine 7 years now and have been lucky enough to road trip it several times and actually put it to use. If you have any questions feel free to PM me. Always glad to help. Happy hunting!
Edited by Britcar driver on Sunday 4th June 15:57
Without knowing your budget it's difficult to advise.
A series 1 is definitely best from an investment point of view but an S1 roadster in good condition is an expensive proposition.
Nothing wrong with S2's, in fact there's a lot right with them, but they don't have the purity of line of the originals.
You'll get a converted car (LH to RH) a bit cheaper but you need to ensure that everything has been changed to UK spec. to put the value back into it.
Personally I would buy the best you can afford. They're expensive cars to sort out and a bargain can soon turn into a financial black hole (I speak from experience !)
Rather than buy from an E Type specialist I would source one privately and get it professionally inspected.
A series 1 is definitely best from an investment point of view but an S1 roadster in good condition is an expensive proposition.
Nothing wrong with S2's, in fact there's a lot right with them, but they don't have the purity of line of the originals.
You'll get a converted car (LH to RH) a bit cheaper but you need to ensure that everything has been changed to UK spec. to put the value back into it.
Personally I would buy the best you can afford. They're expensive cars to sort out and a bargain can soon turn into a financial black hole (I speak from experience !)
Rather than buy from an E Type specialist I would source one privately and get it professionally inspected.
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