I've recently come to own 2 Jaguar XKE project cars (1 coupe and 1 convertible) and separately a V12 engine.

Both are fairly rough, requiring some bodywork and paint, but are near complete. I am considering delving into the restoration but wanted to get any first impressions on what people feel about these particular cars.

What is the practicality of restoring these vehicles? What is availability of parts?

Thanks.

 

Series 1, 2, or 3? Mostly, it will depend on your motivation. As an investment, it will be very expensive and probably a money loser. The market for all but the best examples seems very depressed. As a hobby for a "gearhead", it should keep you busy for a decade, or until you run out of patience or money. Parts are readily available for the most part, though I have seen postings here about some almost non-existent items. I'm not really the guy to ask since all I want to do is drive my car, not work on it, and feel comfortable leaving it in a public parking lot. I'm not a stickler for originality There are contributors here who have extensive experience and technical expertise, so you won't be in it alone. .

 

Always a good idea on any forum, to post photos of what is under discussion. However, as a new member (I think you are).. it takes you a few posts before that can happen.
These cars can be money pits... rusted body panels, interiors that are far past 'shabby' and engines and transmissions that may be seized.

Best to get a parts catalog from SNG Barratt, or Moss or one of the others and just check through for the prices on things you know you are going to have to work on.

What is your mechanical skill level? Do you have access to a lift? How amply stuffed is your checkbook?

To what level to you want to bring these cars? Solid driver? Concours competitor?

Check Bring A trailer for recent auction results which will give you an idea of what the current demand and market are indicating. However, there was an early May, 2026 auction where an unremarkable Series 2, that had over $300,000 put in to it, sold for $300,000. Most well turned out and restored Series 2 cars are in the $70-$130,000 range.
Be sure to get a copy of the Bentley PUblishers Jaguar E type Owners/Workshop manual.. hefty at 400 pages, but an invaluable resource. A Jaguar parts book is also helpful. E types are now 65 years old, the 1961s.. and down into their 50s. They are OLD cars. You have to be able to live with "will it start, will it run, will you get there and will you get home?" But that would go for any similarly-aged vehicle, not just British and not just Jaguar.

If you love these cars because of their history and looks, and are not scared off by what's ahead... then welcome to our world!