3.8 Buying Considerations - The Jaguar E-Type (XK-E) Forum

I am new to old Jags and while I have owned a number of exotics (Ferraris, Lambo, Porsche GT2, etc.), I have never owned an E type, nor a car as old as a 3.8.

First, I like the look of the early cars and am in the market for a 3.8 OTS- not a flat floor, but still a relatively early car. I am not someone who idly collects, but every car I own, I drive, usually on long distance leisurely runs (I drove my old 512 BBi from NY to Fla. one winter day out of sheer boredom, but usually it is long weekend jaunts covering a thousand or so miles). I also want to participate in some vintage events. (I did the Targa Florio this year in Sicily in a rented vintage POS which broke down constantly, but still had a great time).

Here are my questions: I would prefer a 3.8 to a series 1 4.2 partly due to aesthetics, but would want a car that had an upgraded gearbox, brakes and the later seats. Anything else that should be on my checklist in respect to upgrades to make the car more driveable? Wider wheels to accomodate later rubber?
Any reaction to the idea of an upgraded 3.8 over an early 4.2?
One car I have put in an offer on that fits this description was redone a few years ago by Brian Donovan in Mass. I understand he is a first rate shop. My emphasis is not concours correctness (although I want the car to be put together correctly and using the right parts and techniques), but also on driveability.
Any thoughts, generally?
Thanks for reading. This looks like the place to be for info on these cars, but I would also be happy for other research tips. I bought the "Original" book for the E and frankly found it to be a little light on substance in comparison to similar books on other marques.