A Series III Jaguar E-Type V12 Roadster which has been kept stored in a barn for over 20 years and covered just 7,700 miles from new is to go under the hammer at Silverstone Auctions' May Sale.
Originally purchased by the vendor's grandfather in August 1973, the Jaguar was used very sparingly and kept stored indoors before it was passed to his son in April 1993, who chose not to use the car at all during his ownership. He had the car properly 'immobilised' and chose to store in a brick barn for long term investment. Stored in a dehumidified air bubble storage unit, it remained in storage until late last year when the car was 'uncovered'.
Earlier this year the car was recommissioned in order to pass an MoT. The 40-year-old E-Type remains in very highly original order. All the interior is completely original and nicely patinated, the hood is original and in reasonably good working order, even the spare wheel and tool kit are believed totally original. The paint has reacted over time to the moisture in places but seems to be original to the car. The original chrome has rotted in a few places, such as the rear bumper, and the exhaust is now finally blowing.
However, it is a very original, rare and very special car which now offers a unique opportunity to own one of the lowest mileage V12 E-Types in the world with known single family ownership from new. It starts well, idles happily and the manual gearbox feels positive and accurate.
Estimate: £75,000 to £90,000