2Jag

2Jag is a 1970 Series 2 Jaguar E-Type roadster that I’m rebuilding as a restomod. The goal is a car to actually drive: long scenic tours two-up, the occasional autocross, and enough reliability to take it out without worrying about it.

Where it started

The car came to me with its original 4.2 litre XK six badly damaged by an overheat, front-end damage from a 1970s collision that was never quite put right, and a wiring harness destroyed by rodents. Most of the body is solid, which made it a good candidate for keeping the classic E-Type shape and replacing almost everything underneath.

The plan

• Engine: a Toyota 2JZ-GTE inline six with a single turbo, aiming for around 500 hp at the wheels. A long, narrow straight six suits the E-Type far better than a V8 swap.
• Electronics: Haltech standalone engine management and a fully custom wiring harness, while keeping the original gauges where I can.
• Chassis: a custom tubular front structure to replace the bent original subframe, a full spaceframe with integrated roll protection, and the body carried as cladding.
• Driveline: a Ford 9-inch independent rear with a helical limited-slip differential.
• Cockpit: modern sport seats with harnesses and a custom removable soft top.

How it’s being built

The build is split into two stages. Stage 1 is mechanical: chassis, drivetrain, wiring, suspension, and brakes, finishing with a sorted car I can drive in primer. Stage 2 is the cosmetics: final bodywork, paint, and interior. Most of the design work happens in CAD before any metal gets cut.