SEVEN QUESTIONS WITH AN E-TYPE OWNER

Doug Jopling explains how his E-type 2+2 coupé is more practical than you’d think

1 Tell us about your E-type

‘It’s a 1971 Series 2 2+2, so it’s got the 4.2-litre straightsix engine. I bought the car seven years ago.’

2 How did you come to buy it?

‘I was taking my modern car to a garage where I saw a Series 3 V12 2+2 auto for sale, for £15,000. It made me realise that I could afford an E-type, although I specifically wanted a six-cylinder car with a manual gearbox.’

3 How easy was it to find the right car?

‘This was the fifth one that I looked at. There were plenty for sale, but many were in obviously poor condition with filler, cracking paint and low-quality resprays. Despite this their owners wanted strong money for them. Initially I fancied a car with a Webasto sunroof – until

I sat in one. The cloth roof reduces head room too much and at 6’ 1” I can fit in my E-type perfectly. I can even wear a bowler hat in it!’

4 Has it lived up to expectations?

‘Completely. I wanted a car that needed no work, and this one came with a photographic record of its previous restoration to prove its condition. I bought from a reputable dealer and, since then, the car has taken me to Europe and all over the UK, including up to Scotland.’

5 How reliable has it been?

‘At first I had some running problems because of the ignition system, but I fitted an electronic set-up and since then it has been absolutely superb. It uses a bit of oil, but not enough to be a problem. Most importantly, the car runs really well and never overheats thanks to the fitment of upgraded radiator cooling fans.’

6 Any other mods?

‘No – the brakes and suspension are standard and the car is none the worse for this. A five-speed gearbox or overdrive would be great for more relaxed cruising, but I love the car as it is. I would not change it.’

7 How usable is it?

‘The rear seats are suitable only for small children, but considering the available performance it offers, the E-type is really capacious. I do triathlons and I’ve actually fitted a bike (dismantled) and all sorts of other paraphernalia in the car. What stops me using it more is the thirst; even on a run, I struggle to get much more than 20mpg.’