Low Mileage 2+2: 1972 Jaguar E-Type

When it comes to collector cars, we all know there are specific trims and build styles that are more desirable than others. Many enthusiasts will gladly take a subpar example of a sought-after configuration over a nicely restored or preserved model without as many choice options. Take the Jaguar E-Type, for example: everyone wants a Series 1 car with a stick and two seats; an automatic 2+2 is effectively at the other end of the spectrum. But when you see a car like this 1972 Series III model here on eBay in highly original condition with bids to $25,100 and no reserve, it may cause you to look past the earliest cars.

Of course, there’s really nothing wrong with an E-Type in any form; it’s just that many would agree the Series I models are slightly more special with some of the unique features that didn’t carry over to later models. And in general, a 2+2 of any car is less desirable than a true two-seater, but there’s no denying the practicality of a classic sports car with a backseat. The E-Type shown here is believed to have been repainted once in its factory colors but otherwise remains very original with solid floors, an unrestored interior in very good order, and functional factory air conditioning.

The interior does present very well with original carpets and seating surfaces. There is just something so appealing about a car with an original interior as it suggests a lifetime of careful use and indoor storage. The automatic may not be much of a thrill, but cars like the E-Type really were more about grand touring and long-distance cruises rather than hustling around backroads. Now, that said, a manual E-Type is definitely a smart buy and will be plenty of fun to row through the gears, but an automatic in a car like this is not exactly a penalty box. The seller reports that the sun visors and headrest pillows were recently replaced and that there’s some evidence of “foxing” on the headliner.

The engine bay is clean and nicely detailed. It has been updated with a Pertronix electronic ignition system, which makes cold starts a breeze. I thought long and hard about converting to a Pertronix setup with my last carbureted vehicle but never did it; I wonder now if it would have led to my keeping one of those cars around longer if I didn’t have to deal with unpredictable cold starts. The seller reports that loads of recent maintenance have been performed, including: a complete carburetor kit and overhaul; 12 spark plugs; master cylinder with brake system flush; radio antenna; and oil and filter change. If this were a Series I in this sort of condition, you’d see bids way higher than $25K at the moment. Which generation do you think is the better buy?

Comments

  1. Avatar Rex Kahrs Member

    I prefer the 2+2, and the auto is fine with me. BUT…”I’m not the norm!”

    Like 7
  2. HoA Howard A Member

    Really? $25g’s, for an E type? ANY E TYPE? This says a lot, folks, where the hobby is going. Not too long ago, Jags like this were always 6 figures. To some, this may not be the most desirable E Type, but as a good friend of mine always sez, “I wouldn’t kick this out of my parking space”. The taller roof always seemed to detract from it’s sleek looks, the V12, fantastic piece of machinery, some of Britains best engineering went into these motors, and the automatic, I believe is the standard B-W unit, that propelled countless number of cars, all over the world. Now, would I want a V12 today? You know what they say, like a Rolls, if you can’t afford to repair it, you have no business owning one. I don’t mean to gloat, but with almost 60 bids, going up in $100 increments, FOR A JAG,,,tells me, the hobby meltdown has begun. I better sell that squarebody before THAT loses is glitz too.

    Like 11
    • Avatar Mark Member

      I agree, I had a 73 Coupe. It wasn’t called a 2+2, only the coupe and the roadster. The lines were different from the earlier 2+2’s and it looked great to me. I also owned a 61 coupe and 69 roadster. I did not care for the earlier 2+2’s, they looked awkward, but I certainly wouldn’t turn down this beauty.

      Like 0
  3. Avatar leiniedude Member

    Nice ad for a change! Can someone help me out here? ‘evidence of “foxing” on the headliner’.

    Like 5
    • Avatar Mikefromthehammer

      Not exactly the same thing, but I did find this definition of “foxing” when it comes to books. Perhaps this type of staining is what he is talking about regarding the headliner?

      https://pennbookcenter.com/what-is-foxing-on-books/

      Like 4
      • Avatar leiniedude Member

        Thanks a ton Mike. You may be right. I did not really notice anything in the ad photos. Take care, Mike.

        Like 2
      • Avatar Mikefromthehammer

        You’re welcome leinie. I enjoy “sleuthing” using Google. lol

        Like 1
  4. Avatar Ryan

    I saw one of these going down highway today with the plate E-TYPE. Very strange

    Like 0
  5. Avatar ChingaTrailer

    Jag V12 + Automatic + 2+2 = No Thanks

    Like 0
  6. Avatar DeeBee

    An E type, coupe or 2+2 series “any”. In other words an E type Jag, any flavor, I’m not at all picky!

    Like 5
  7. Avatar Howie

    $29,150 now and ends in 8 hours.

    Like 1
  8. Avatar charlie Member

    The BW automatic was in my ’60 XK 150 S, and was very solid and reliable, unlike the rest of the mechanicals and electricals in the car. And compared to the GM and Chrysler automatics of the day, was not nearly as slushy.

    Like 2
  9. Avatar Christopher Gentry

    I actually prefer the 2+2. Just prefer the lines. Would like a stick better but , heck for the price of used ford …..

    Like 4
  10. Avatar wizzy

    I’m concerned about the misshapen bonnet and fenders, both sides. There are marked waves in those panels, and they don’t align properly. Also, there’s a noticeable little knob in the lower right rear fender just behind the wheel that doesn’t look right. Further, though it might be the quality of the light on the car, I think the bonnet paint doesn’t match the balance of the body. Has this car been damaged? I think the buyer should take advantage of the post-auction inspection period and have a closer look.

    Like 1
    • Avatar Richard Martin

      That’s a good call Wizzy. I reckon you can add the doors to your list as well.
      These cars always had lovely straight panels and this one doesn’t.
      However if you can get it for what seems to be a bargain price it would probably be worth getting the body right.

      Like 1
  11. Avatar john

    37k with a minute…

    Like 0
  12. Avatar bowmade

    Winning bid:US $40,600.00
    About average sale price in today’s market. It’s a long ways from a Concours car and would require some dedication and wallet to keep in on the road & driven like it was meant to preform.

    Like 3

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