Vantage Coupe

Segment
Coupe

The original Jaguar XKE (or E-Type) is well known for being one of the prettiest cars of all time. The E-Type was even given the ultimate compliment of being called the most beautiful car in the world by Enzo Ferrari himself. Jaguar finally followed up the E-Type with the new F-Type, but this hasn't stopped several smaller companies from trying to replicate the original car's amazing looks. Eagle has perhaps created the most stunning recreation of the E-Type with the Speedster and Low Drag GT, but these cars are only affordable for millionaires.

We love the amazing creations from Eagle, but at roughly $1 million a pop, there's really no way to own one without hitting the lottery. Luckily, we have managed to find a 1964 XKE that's currently for sale for just over $50,000. Like the cars from Eagle, the car is not original, which will anger the purists out there. However, the E-Type never had the best reputation for being reliable, so this engine-swapped XKE we found might be the perfect option for someone who actually wants to drive it around frequently. The car is currently for sale by Streetside Classics in Fort Worth, Texas. The asking price is $51,995 and the car is believed to only have just under 19,000 original miles on the odometer.

It's has only had one previous owner who had to temporarily transfer from Texas to Hawaii. Due to a lack of available parts in Hawaii, the car's original 3.8-liter straight-six was replaced with a Ford Motorsports 5.0 liter V8 crate motor. This engine is fed by Edelbrock 4-barrel carburetor and uses headers that weave around the frame extensions. The V8 produces around 50 percent more horsepower than the original engine's 265 hp. This means that power should be somewhere around the 400 hp range. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a Ford AOD 4-speed automatic transmission which goes to the original independent rear end. The car also retains the original front suspension.

Stopping is handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, and there is a new dual exhaust that gives the car a throaty roar. The look is completed by wire wheels with knock-off centers and 215/70/15 radial tires. It may not be all original, but it looks and sounds fantastic.

As for the exterior, the car has been modified for an interesting look that doesn't stray too far from the original design. The red paint will catch a ton of looks, and the massive hood scoop looks menacing. The bumpers and door handles have been shaved to give the car a no-frills race car look. The interior looks pretty original, except for the automatic transmission which wasn't offered in 1964. The interior is covered with tons of black leather and matching black carpeting. There's even a nicely sized storage area that makes this car quite practical. There is no radio, but that just gives more incentive to listen to the growling Ford V8. It may not be for purists, but it is much more affordable than a stock E-Type or present day Eagle.