Comprehensive restoration performed in 1997, holding up nicely
Original 4.2-litre XK engine, fully rebuilt during the 1997 restoration
Four-speed manual gearbox fitted
Well-known history supported by a substantial paperwork file
Voluntarily MOT tested: advisory-free and valid until February 2025
The Appeal
This has to be among the most usable E-Types currently on the market.
A right-hand drive Series 1 Coupé in 2+2 grand-touring specification with the much-improved 4.2-litre engine and a manual gearbox. Count us in. We'd jump in and drive this car down to the South of France tomorrow without a moment's thought and would no doubt have a whale of a time doing it.
This Jaguar began life in Germany, supplied via distributor Peter Linder, Frankfurt, as a left-hand drive model with an automatic gearbox. Classically finished in the tasteful combination of British Racing Green over a black interior, the car eventually made its way back to Britain in 1991, later undergoing extensive restoration in 1997. It was at this point a righthand drive conversion was carried out along with a manual gearbox swap and colour change to red.
Now returned to its factory BRG scheme and benefitting from a further mechanical overhaul in 2022, this car is aptly described by the vendor as a "good entry level E-Type" - a car that's ready to enjoy with room to improve if you want to. Voluntarily MOT tested for peace of mind, resulting in a clean pass, this supremely drivable big cat awaits its next owner.
History and Paperwork
Build dated 4th April 1967
S1 4.2 2+2 Coupé model supplied in BRG over black in LHD, auto
Delivered to German distributor Peter Linder, Frankfurt
Imported to the UK in 1991
Five former registered keepers since import
Subject of a comprehensive restoration in 1997
Restoration included a full rebuild of the original engine (still retained)
Colour change to red during restoration, now reverted back to BRG
Converted to right-hand drive and manual using a genuine Jaguar 4-speed gearbox during restoration
Invoices for the aforementioned 2022 mechanical work amounting to over £5,000
Further invoice for fuel tank replacement in 2023 coming in at £1,300
Numerous other invoices for parts and labour over the years
Photo record of the restoration work is with the car
MOT until 8th Feb. 2025
Exempt from road tax and MOT
V5C present
The Condition
Bodywork restored in 1997 and refinished in red (photo record on file)
Now refinished in its original British Racing Green to a good standard
Bullet-type chromed wing mirrors fitted
Bodywork remains in generally good order for the age of the car
No obvious rust blemishes or any notable panel damage
Smart chrome trim with only light pitting evident in places
All four chromed wire wheels present very well indeed
The vendor notes a few small imperfections including a small parking dent in the bonnet
Interior remains in generally good order, with a light age-commensurate patina
Besides a few small scuffs and some general wear, the seat upholstery remains smart and eminently serviceable
Some discolouration visible to the headlining
Leather-trimmed Moto-Lita sports steering wheel
Retro-look modern DIN stereo system
We understand the instruments and cabin electrics to be in good working order
With its covered headlamps and minimalist bumpers, the Series 1 is regarded as the prettiest of the E-Types and this 2+2 Coupé cuts a fine figure in the iconic shade of British Racing Green.
The bodywork looks to be in very sound order and regardless of some minor paint and body imperfections visible upon close inspection, this is an exceedingly presentable E-Type.
The interior remains highly original and like the exterior, is eminently serviceable in its current lightly patinated condition. There's certainly no egregious wear to speak of and those nicely broken-in seats look very comfortable - exactly what this sort of car should be.
The Mechanics
4.2-litre XK DOHC straight-six
Jaguar four-speed manual gearbox
Original engine rebuilt in 1997
Superbly presented engine compartment
New fuel tank installed in 2023
Electric auxiliary cooling fan fitted
Superbly presented engine compartment
Work in 2022 included:
New clutch
Hi-torque starter motor fitted
New alternator
New fuel pump
Contrary to popular belief, Jaguar didn't introduce the 4.2-litre engine to increase top speed; it was all about torque. E-Types are for long-distance touring, after all, and while the 3.8-litre XK engine reached peak power at 5,500 rpm, the 4.2 achieved the same with 100 fewer revs, resulting in a much-improved throttle response without the need to change down.
Now that the manual gearbox has been fitted, this E-Type will be very engaging to drive. The fact it retains its original engine is a nice touch, made better still by it having been rebuilt. The recent mechanical work ensures that it continues to drive very well, according to the vendor, while the current advisory-free MOT shows that this car is ready to be enjoyed right away.
BEFORE YOU BUY
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