Supercharged 1962 Series 1 Jaguar E-Type 3.8 Roadster
1970 Lotus Elan, 1959 Jaguar Mk2 3.4, Jaguar Mk1 (was a 2.4 but had a 3.4 engine in it), Riley Pathfinder, 1970 Triumph Vitesse, amongst others. Wife has also had Triumph Spitfire Mk4, TVR M Series, Lotus Esprit Turbo (X180), MGTF 160 and, currently, they run a 2006 Porsche Boxster S.
Bought over 40 years ago, novelty not worn off
- this Carpool has been written by PHer Vince Miller (read about his own Vauxhall Monaro in
a previous Carpool
) on behalf of his friend Malcolm who wanted to share his rather special E-Type but, in his words, "doesn't really do computers!" Alongside souping up his E-Type Malcolm has also helped Vince work on his Monaro, for which he wants to say a public thanks!
Why he bought it:
"At 16 years old this was a dream car for him, and then 11 years later he could finally afford one at £560, which was four months wages back then!"
What he wishes he'd known:
"Nothing really. When it was bought there weren't many around so the choice was limited, and this was the most expensive one. However, at today's money - approximately £11K - a Jaguar XKR is a vastly superior car to the E-Type. Such is the level of progress, however in the looks department that may be debatable."
A lot of time, love and money spent here
"It's quite unique - it is possibly the fastest (not to mention loudest) E Type in the UK, with a proven 170mph top speed and a verified 420bhp+ and 400lb/ft of torque. The looks and the feel-good factors are things he loves too. I think it's worth mentioning here that the vast majority of the modifications are all done by Malcolm at home, and I think the photos speak for themselves."
Things he hates:
"The ventilation (heating) is poor as are the wipers, but that's about it!"
Costs:
"It has taken 800 man hours to get to this level and about £10K. Everything except the ECU (thanks to Emerald ECUs and welding has been DIY, and that includes addition of the supercharger and intercooler, uprated brakes, and the addition of a Borg Warner competition T5 gearbox (a previous BW box was blown!). Other ancillaries (clutch etc) have been upgraded to cope accordingly."
'Each journey is an occasion' - no kidding!
"Woodbridge Speed Trials for that confirmed 170mph, but no other big trips. Each journey is an occasion in this car. It was a daily driver until the Boxster was bought."
What next?
"A modified cam to give the followers an easier life but still retaining the power and driveability - a winter project. Unlikely to ever be for sale."
Want to share your car with PHers on Carpool? Email us at carpool@pistonheads.com!