Roadster top
 

So I am new to the forum. I am looking at a series 2 roadster project. I am trying to learn more about these classics. I have seem pictures of what looks like a roadster with a hard top. I didn't find anything on my searches so maybe someone here could educate me. Thanks, Andy

Andy, there are non factory and factory hardtops that fit XKE's and sit over the convertible top. I have a 1966 series 1 E type and I believe the factory hardtop I have fits the series 1 and 2 models. The series 3 factory hardtop is different. The factory hardtop is fiberglass with a plexi glass rear window and chrome trim that is impossible to find.if missing but one in good condition really looks great on the car. The non-factory hardtops I have seen were not well constructed and only look good from a distance.

Andy,
Welcome to the forum and the world of E types! I have leaned on the experience of the members here numerous times in the process of dealing with the two 70 roadsters I bought recently., one very much a "project".

Piper gave you the lowdown on the tops, save the bit about the cost. I suspect it would be less expensive to purchase a car already fitted with one than trying to source one separately.. I would go so far as to say that applies to the entire car. I don't know your motivation for a "project", but from a financial standpoint it would be infinitely more economical to buy a car already restored.

During your search, definitely present purchase candidates here. The experienced members have extensive understanding of these cars that wil aid in your evaluation.

Best of luck,
Pete

Thanks for the information. I will be doing more research

The project that I am looking at is a series 2 roadster. I would be doing all of the work on it including body and paint. I am going to look at it in a couple of days so I will know more then.

Andy, I have had about four E-Types over the years but never one that came with a removable hard top until about a year or so ago when I purchased a ’69 Series II that came from the factory with a removable hard top and was still with the car when I purchased it. The combination of a cream car with a black top was not my favorite combo. Plus living in Texas I knew that I would never use it. Most likely will not use the new soft top unless I get caught in the rain. The ones that I have seen on BaT go for a lot of $$. The rear Plexiglas is fogged up on mine. I have all the seals, chrome, and clips. I need a new rear window and then I am going to sell it. I just have been lazy about it. They are surprisingly light and easy on and off. Two extremely accessible bolts (one on each side of the rear and then clips on the front like a soft top. Even if stock or not, I think they look best the same color as the car. I saw a black on black and it looked great. Good luck with your project…you won’t regret it. Does anyone know if it is possible to refurbish a fogged Plexiglas rear window as opposed to buy new one? I have not checked on availability but both Moss and SNG have them in their catalogs for about $1,000.

Hi craft,
Yes, you can refurbish a plexiglass window using the same kits used to refurbished fogged headlights. It takes a little bit of work, but it can be done.
Let me know if you decide to sell your hardtop I would be interested.

E type Hardtop Prices
 

FYI if you search for sales of roaster hardtops on Bring a Trailer you will find that originals are incredibly expensive. I have seen good series 1 hardtops go for as high as $20 -$30k and series 2 for $10 -$20K. If you find a nice car at a good price with an original hardtop on it its a nice bonus. I was lucky enough to get a 70 with one. .
Cheers

I am planning to have the plexiglass window on my hardtop polished. You can find professionals that restore/ polish the isinglass/vinyl grade marine windows commonly sewn into canvas covers on boats for much better result at a reasonable cost. Hope this helps.