I'm a bit too tall for an OTS but I do fit in a 2+2. Can it be modified in any way to get an extra few inches? If not, do the series 3 roadsters have the same headroom as previous 2+2s? I would prefer an OTS. I'm worried about the maintenance and expense of the V12. Should I be? Thanks for the help

Submitted by michael@xks.com on Tue, 11/22/2011 - 16:21

Mark:
I am also too tall for most E-Types. IÔÇÖll never forget the episode of Magnum, p.i. when the Ferrari was in the shop and Thomas drove a loaner E-Type ÔÇô he simply looked over the top of the windshield. I am in the same boat.
I recently had the opportunity to drive a 3.8 FHC our restoration shop just finished and it was a tight fit. My feet are also too big for the pedal arrangement.
One thing you can do is remove the spacers under the seat frames and bolt the seats directly to the floor. To gain additional space beyond this simple modification requires more extensive surgery.
The V-12 cars were of course all built on the LWB chassis and are a much better fit for folks north of six feet. I agree with Mr. BradyÔÇÖs comments about the V-12s in that they are proper GT cars; you just have to decide if the later E-Types evolved into something that does ÔÇô or does not ÔÇô fulfill your desires. Talk to some owners and drive a few examples. There are fixes available for most of the mechanical shortcomings of the V-12 cars that turn them into very reliable automobiles. Enjoy the search!

Submitted by bonnettoboot@e… on Mon, 11/21/2011 - 16:05

How tall are you? Wilt Chamberlain could even squeeze into a 3.8 OTS! Actually, he never had the top closed, he lowered the foot panels till they almost grounded, modified the fuel tank and rear panels to move the seat back and operated the accelerator linkage by hand. You wouldn't have to do quite as much. The 2+2 and the V12E were made for people like you, The bad news is, they use more fuel and are a little more expensive to service. The good news is, well there's a lot, but mainly, less expensive to buy, a much more comfortable car to drive, better seats, better power steering, better brakes and it is a real GT. It can be driven all day long. Most criticism is levelled at the body, it is wider, and the wings are flared, apparently this does not appeal to some people, I love it. Get one while these rumours persist because eventually the car will be seen as the ultimate production E Type. By the way I still like my series one!