1962 Jaguar XKE Series 1 3.8 Flat Floor Roadster (barn-find project)

Why we picked it

Why we picked it: Flat-floor 3.8 roadsters are the earliest and most collected E-Types, and project examples rarely come up at this price. The dealer lists this one as a long-term barn find that needs a total restoration. It has triple SUs, a 4-speed, welded bonnet louvers, wire wheels and a claimed matching-numbers engine. It does not run. The sale price is $39,950, down from $44,500, but one block of text on the page still shows $62,500, so confirm the price in writing.

Later Series 1 4.2 roadster projects have sold for $43,000 to $55,500 this year, and a running 1962 flat-floor roadster brought $73,000 in September. An early 3.8 car should be worth at least as much as a 4.2 in the same condition, provided the structure can be saved. Beverly Hills Car Club gives no mileage, title status, rust report or VIN/engine numbers, and sells as-is. Confirm the title and the chassis, engine and body numbers against Jaguar Heritage records, and have an E-Type specialist inspect it in person.

The value check

The seller is asking $39,950. Comparable cars in the same condition have sold for $43,000–$73,000, so the middle of the market is about $58,000. That put this car 31% under.

Later Series 1 4.2 roadster projects sold for $43,000 and $55,500 in 2026; a running 1962 flat-floor roadster sold for $73,000 on BaT in Sep 2026, and nicer early roadsters bring $98,000 to $140,000.

Where the numbers come from:

• 1968 E-Type S1.5 roadster project, $43,000 (Jul 2026)
• 1967 E-Type 4.2 roadster project, $55,500 (May 2026)
• 1962 flat-floor roadster driver, $73,000 (Sep 2026)
• 1962 E-Type roadster, $98,000 (Broad Arrow, Aug 2026)

What to check

• The spec field reads 'Rust'. Inspect the monocoque floors, sills, bulkhead, boot floor and rear radius-arm mounts closely, since structural repair on an E-Type tub is very expensive
• Verify flat-floor status (chassis number range and floor pressings) and get a Jaguar Heritage certificate to back up the matching-numbers claim
• The 3.8 Moss gearbox has no synchro on first; check for a seized engine, a cracked head and corroded alloy parts
• Early-car parts (flat-floor pans, louvered bonnet, outside bonnet latches if fitted) are scarce and costly
• The page shows two prices ($39,950 and $62,500); get the price and as-is terms in writing, and confirm a clean title

Making it drive like new

Most owners restore early flat-floor cars correctly, but restomod upgrades that bolt on fit well: a 5-speed Getrag or Tremec conversion, an alloy radiator with an electric fan, uprated front brake calipers, adjustable dampers, electronic ignition, and lightweight high-torque starter and alternator units. Keep the original 3.8 and Moss box crated with the car to protect its value.

1 builder makes a complete chassis for the 1961–75 Jaguar E-Type. Compare them side by side, along with what it takes to stiffen the factory frame.