We all know someone who’s hoarding a classic car with the intention of restoring in “one day”. But life often gets in the way, and before you know it decades have passed and the car is no closer to getting back on the road.
That situation can lead to the restorer’s holy grail of a ‘barn find’ – when they discover a complete and original car in almost mummified condition, fresh from years of deepest storage in a dry garage. This example – a 1962 Jaguar E-type – isn’t exactly mummified, having spent much of its life standing in a damp, drafty, West Midlands barn, but despite its dilapidated condition it is expected to fetch at least £44,000 when it’s auctioned off in April.
The E-Type fixed-head coupé was delivered new to Birmingham, where its first owner had it for 35 years. In 1997 it was sold to a West Midlands Jaguar enthusiast who planned to restore it, but – as the story all too often goes – once it was ensconced in a barn, it didn’t come out again for another two decades.
E-type chassis number 282 is a very early example, and these are highly collectable whatever their condition. It was originally finished in Dark Opalescent Blue with black trim. It now wears white paint and is in far less than stellar condition, but even with significant rust damage, a replacement bonnet and missing radiator and glass, it’s a highly desirable renovator’s dream.
Authentic components that remain include the original braking system, steering wheel and dashboard, which means there’s plenty for an experienced restorer to sink their teeth (and their money) into.
The E-Type is due to be sold at Classic Car Auctions sale at the NEC on 1-2 April.
