Greetings to everyone from Los Angeles👋,



I’m looking into buying a Jaguar E-Type 2+2, I love the design, but I’m new to classic cars and not very mechanically experienced. I’ve read that E-Types can be tough to maintain and expensive to repair—especially for someone who isn’t working on it themselves.



I’m considering a drivetrain swap focused on reliability and ease of maintenance, just to make the car more practical for regular use. I’m not aiming for a show car or a high-end restomod—just something I can drive and enjoy without constant mechanical issues or $20K repair bills.



I’d love help from anyone who’s done something similar or has insight into:

1. What major systems need to be changed or upgraded in a drivetrain swap like this? (Mounts, cooling, wiring, driveshaft, etc.)
2. What kind of budget should I realistically expect for a basic but functional swap, using common and affordable components—not modern V8s or luxury-level builds?
3. Most of the quotes I’ve seen from resto shops are well over $70-100k, but I’m hoping to find something simpler. Are there shops out there that do more practical, budget-friendly swaps for drivers, not collectors?
4. Even with a more reliable drivetrain, is the 2+2 still going to be a pain to maintain? Or can it actually be made relatively trouble-free?

I’m not looking to ruin a classic—just to make it driveable, dependable, and enjoyable without becoming a full-time mechanic. Any advice or direction is appreciated!



Thanks in advance!