[fred cook]

If you do buy an E-Type, make certain that it has a new or at least good clutch. Replacing the clutch pack requires removing the bonnet and radiator and pulling the engine/transmission. Major job! Also check the brakes. The rear brakes are mounted inboard and require lots of disassembly to replace the rotors. The electrical system? Well, it's by Lucas, so just be prepared! Still, in spite of these and other things, the XKE Jaguar is hands down the sexiest car ever designed, especially the coupes (not the 2+2 models). Oh, and yes you can "backdate" the front by replacing the entire bonnet with a pre 1968 version. Just be prepared for writing a major check for the parts! Just for the record, a 1961-1967 E-Type coupe is the one car (other than my 911) that I have lusted over for many, many years! Hopefully I will be able to have one someday.