Where we live, Cornwall England
Type: Series 1 3.8L LHD
Year of Manufacture: 1963
Original Colour: Opalescent Silver Blue
I have wanted an E-type or XKE since it made its first appearance in 1961. Now, 40 years later, I am on the look-out for a restorable example of the OTS, sometimes referred to as a roadster. It must be a Series 1, arguably the most elegant example of the model. A 4.2 litre would be great, better gearbox, seats, electrics etc. but they are getting rare so can't be too choosy.
Almost all the cars I looked at had been restored to some degree and this was reflected in the price, but they still needed further work. What I really want is an original example without too much rust - quite a tall order! However this one looks just right.
The first owner lived in Arizona. I guess it would have remained rust free there but at some stage it moved to California where it finally spent 13 years in storage before being re-imported to England. It was a non-runner when I first saw it and although covered in dents from its years in store the lack of "obvious" rust made it seem like a good restoration project. Bonnet looks to have plenty of filler around the air intake, otherwise not bad. It doesn't seem to have major accident damage and the gaps around doors and bonnet are reasonably good. The full story won't be known until the paint is off though.
With the decision made it's now home but 4 more years in our garage follow before I finally had time to start the restoration in July 2005. The target is to finish with a very drivable car so upgrades will be added where they don't detract from the great looks of the Series 1. Nothing will be changed that can't be put back and all the original parts will be retained.
Click on the images to follow the progress.................
