Every restoration is a callenge of its own. The level of dedication and perseverance required can make it somewhat of a spiritual journey for its owner (if not for the ones around him). In the case of this E-type Jaguar, it was the car itself that went on a pilgrimage on the Camino Real.
The 1973 Jaguar E-type S3 V12 2+2 coupé featured here was not really in a bad condition. Having been sold new in the USA, it became part of a multi-car collection after being imported to the Netherlands. For over 20 years, the big cat was kept indoors, only to be taken out for a yearly ‘spin-around-town’ on dealer plates. With 75.000 mls, it had never been restored and was in running and driving condition. Time had left its marks though; the body had several flaws and the Jaguar needed to be brought back to a state of preventive maintenance.
The e-type in unrestored condition. Sold by Dandy Classics, to a new Spanish owner.
We sold the E-type to a new caretaker from Galicia, Spain. With a thorough approach and with respect to originality, a restoration was started. The body was taken down to bare metal, before being refinished in its original silver colour. Mechanically, the car has been freshened up, with complete rebuilds of front and rear suspension, carburettors and cooling system. The interior was kept original, preserving the leather seats rather than reupholstering them.
The new owner can be proud of his achievement of turning this monumental car into a stunningly beautiful and reliable driver. It must be a treat to drive a car like this on winding Spanish coastal roads. If you ever visit Galicia, watch out for this big cat leaping up from behind.
Need inspiration for your next holiday destination? The ‘Caribbean beach’ in Galicia heads the list of top 10 beaches of the world. Read this article from the Guardian…
Did this article inspire you to take on a restoration project by yourself? Take a look at our collection and see what’s in store.