29k-Mile 1972 Jaguar XKE Roadster 4-Speed

This 1972 Jaguar XKE Roadster is a nice driver that recently emerged from 9 years of extended storage. The car has covered just 29k miles and was reportedly purchased from the original owner in 1991. This Series 3 XKE has benefitted from $8k in mechanical and cosmetic freshening since it was taken out of storage, including work on the distributor, carbs, fuel lines, brakes, clutch, and electrics, as well as removal and sealing of the fuel tank, a starter rebuild, fluid changes, and a full tune-up. As part of this refurbishment, the car has been driven approximately 150 miles and it is reported to be running well. It is powered by a 5.3L V12 that retains its four Zenith Stromberg carburetors and is coupled to a 4-speed manual gearbox. The seller is representing this E-Type on behalf of his friend, the current owner. The car is sold with a clean Illinois title.The car was reportedly repainted in the original color some years ago to a good standard without noticeable overspray. It has been lightly cleaned after its 9-year hibernation, but would benefit from a thorough detailing including a paint buffing. The top is clean and fits tautly, though the rear window is clouded and needs replacement.This example rides on 72-spoke chrome wire wheels, and the seller indicates that the tires show limited wear.The black interior has nice patina with the leather showing no tears and only light scuffing on the bolsters. The dash and switchgear appear solid, showing no chips, cracks, or notable wear. As with the exterior, the cockpit could use a complete detailing, though no obvious repairs are required. The seller reports the A/C is functioning but does not blow very cold.The 5.3L V12 is said to start easily and run well following its extensive mechanical refurbishment. The car is said to remain cool and pull well, but performance might be improved by a more detailed servicing or rebuild of the carbs. The engine is backed by a 4-speed manual gearbox that received a clutch service during the refresh.Under body photos document some of the recent mechanical freshening. The car shows typical surface corrosion, and no obvious signs of fluid leaks or seepage.Service history includes an interesting 20-year old $6900 invoice from Crow Engineering of Essex, UK, who are described as having traveled the US with a mobile workshop offering mechanical and rebuild services to American Jaguar owners.Detailed records document the recent cosmetic and mechanical work undertaken when this example was brought out of storage in 2016.Filed under: e type, e-type