Considering that it's one of the most iconic sports cars ever, the Jaguar E-Type is usually a very cherished classic car loved, adored and well preserved by its owners. We were rather horrified, then, to discover the condition of this abandoned E-Type, which has been neglected for nearly 20 years. It's not just any E-Type, either – this 1962 model happens to be a rare early example of the E-Type Series 1 Fixed Coupe. Soon it will be going under the hammer at the Practical Classics Show in Birmingham, England.

The E-Type barn find is estimated to sell between 38,000 and 44,000 GBP ($46,648 to $54,000). That may sound like a lot for a ruined Jag, but the car is still apparently in "very original condition," despite what the dusty and decaying exterior may suggest, and still retains features like the original brake system. Look closely at the worn paintwork, and you'll be able to spot shades of the factory Opalescent Blue in places. The hood was replaced, and the radiator and some glass are missing, but other than that most of the original parts remain, including the factory steering wheel and dash. Available as a right-hand-drive with a manual transmission, the E-Type was bought by its original owner in 1962.

It came finished in Dark Opalescent Blue with Black trim, which was a rare and sought after color combination at the time, and was kept for 35 years by its first owner, before being passed on to a new owner in 1997. At some point a Jaguar enthusiast acquired the E-Type and put it into storage in a barn with the intention of restoring it. Sadly, that never happened, and the classic sports car has been abandoned ever since for nearly 20 years. "These very early E-Types are now highly collectible these days and this example will be a serious project, but one that could be very worthwhile," explains Harry Whale, classic car expert at Classic Car Auctions.

"Last year the Jaguar E-Type Series I experienced very significant growth on the classic car market and we expect buyers to be queuing up for the chance to own an example just like, ready to give it the TLC it deserves." Again, $54,000 may sound like a lot, but pristine examples typically go for around twice that. For a keen Jaguar enthusiast looking for a restoration project, this could be an absolute bargain.