On my '69 4.2 roadster, I'm installing a stainless exhaust up to the resonators and am concerned whether the new mufflers and pipes will increase the exhaust note to uncomfortably loud levels.

Also, by taking out the original corroded and but still serviceable steel system, I was told by a purist type, that when it comes to real-sale, what I consider to be a worthwhile upgrade, will actually be frowned upon and discounted, as messing with its correctness.

Any thoughts on either matter?

 

If you have a flat floor, outside bonnet latch S1 or the very first V12 built, then originality is paramount to value. As you move away from those rare birds, it matters less and less. They built more than 70,000 e-types so they aren't rare. You're more at risk of negatively impacting value with permanent (shaved door handles or antenna) or crazy (LS swap) than something easily reversible like an exhaust.

Having a S2 (mine is a 70 OTS) gives you the liberty to enjoy it as a car, not an investment. When the crash comes (and it will come), the S2s will be devastated compared to the S1s (and decimal versions). So enjoy it and give anyone who frowns at you the finger!

Jim

 

Thanks for that bit of affirmation....while it's a high end driver, I Ty to stay as correct as poss. To the extent of paying an insane amt for an orig manual in its pouch. Forget about the tool roll. So I've gotta keep an eye on the investment value while enjoying this magnificent beast.....but when does an asset become a liability? Crash?.....they're not gonna crash! Say it ain't so Jim.

 

Can you say "unsustainable"?

https://www.hagerty.com/valuationtoo...eport?vbe=2123

Keep in mind that it costs the same to restore a Series 1 as it does a Series 2 so when the bubble bursts the S2s will suffer more.

People say the mild steel exhausts sound better if that helps rationalize your decision.

Keep in mind that from the e-type specialty forums it seems that there are mods that will increase value of the mainstream cars. Base/clear paint, 5-speed and triple SU conversions are common examples.