I've always fancied an E-type but never really thought I'd be in the position to afford one. I was specifically after a 2+2, with a preference for the earlier series 1. I noticed that prices have been coming down on some cars recently (mainly series 2/3 cars), and bid on a few at auction but lost out. Then I saw an advert for a "barn find" series 1 2+2 in the Cotswolds a few weeks back. The previous owner had started to restore it but became unwell and passed away, and it had been sitting for probably 8 years in a dry garage. Apparently he had rebuilt the engine/gearbox (although I have no documented evidence of this), sorted the underside and rebuilt the IRS cage etc.
I took a put and went to look at it. 3 owners, original engine with matching numbers. Was a bit sorry for itself having been dragged out into the garden, but is a solid car with virtually no rust on the bodywork or underside. Rear brakes/suspension are all new, and other than some storage related paint marks the body is straight. All of the missing front-end trim came with the car and has been rechromed. I was able to hear the engine running (and it ran/idled well) but had to shut it off as the fuel pump was leaking.
Did a deal for what was hopefully a very good price and god it trailered home. Gave it a quick wash and it already looks presentable (from a few metres at least!).
So far, I've replaced the fuel pump and rear hoses to get the engine running, and been over to make a list of what is needed to get it going. The clutch slave is the next job as I't won't currently drive. Spend a very painful day yesterday trying to get the handbrake reconnected at the rear, as it had not been done correctly.
The plan is to try to do as much work as I can myself, and then get it checked over by an expert and MOTed. Aiming for a driver that we can enjoy rather than concourse standard!
If anyone has any info on the history of the car (reg KLR 212D) I'd love to hear it!
