The Jaguar E-Type is an intrinsic thread in the tapestry of British history, it flicks a significant emotional switch. The car we have here is a Series 2, the version introduced from 1968 with the aim of globalising the model. Distinguishing features of this generation include the uncovered headlight apertures, wraparound rear bumper with taillights repositioned beneath, and larger front grille to aid the engine’s twin fans. The Series 2 took all of the desirable elements of the original E-Type and wrapped them up in a more mature and complete package.
This particular car has an interesting history. A genuine UK right-hand drive example, it was originally supplied to its first owner in Lancashire in December 1969 – a manual 4.2 roadster in Signal Red. But the car has actually spent much of its life since in Norway; the Norwegian service book has handwritten notes from 1976 onward, and we can see its journey back home via a temporary Norwegian registration certificate dated May 2022, and a fresh UK V5 from November 2023.
While you might expect a lifetime in the snowy Nordics to have troublesome effects when it comes to bodywork, it’s actually the case that cars like this tend not to get used in the winter, being locked away and shielded from the elements, and that appears to be the case with this one. Look underneath and you’ll find pleasing solidity – and it’s a truly lovely car to drive today too, the eager straight-six and manual transmission working in harmony with a smooth ride.
Oh, and one further note of interest: this isn’t just an E-Type, it’s a celebrity. Well, sort of. The car played a minor role in Nattsvermere, a Norwegian made-for-TV movie in 1981. OK, it’s not quite The Italian Job, but it’s a decent pub boast.
The E-Type roadster has a striking profile, which turns many a head as you cruise through the metropolis. All of the correct trim and badging is in place, with chrome that really gleams. The light lenses and window glass are all good, and the original-spec wheels are in super condition, with shiny chromed hubcaps and a quality set of matching Avon Turbospeed tyres. Panel fit is good with even shutlines, and the car appears to be impressively solid underneath; it’s a sign of a machine that’s been thoughtfully maintained that every single bolt beneath has been treated to a dab of copper slip.
At some point in the car’s life it’s had a repaint in a slightly deeper shade of red (more of a cherry red, we’d say), which suits the elegant profile very well. From up close it’s possible to identify imperfections in the paintwork, along with the odd ripple to the metalwork (most notably on the offside of the front clamshell) and a little flaking to the paint along the arch edges and door bottoms. A perfectionist owner may prefer to spend a little on addressing the paint finish, but on the whole it’s a presentable and attractive car, ready to use and enjoy. The soft-top is in good order, and is easy to raise, latch and lower, with a nice clear window pane.
Inside the cabin, it’s evident that this is a great example of a properly used classic; we’re not looking at a concours-quality interior, but rather one which you wouldn’t be afraid to use day-to-day. Everything is present and correct, the seats are in good condition with no rips or tears, and the patinated wood-rim steering wheel is a charming item. The dials all appear to be doing what they should. An extra switch panel has been retrofitted in the driver footwell to operate the lights. Inside the boot it’s all dry and tidy, with the correct spare wheel in place. 7.jpg807.58 KB
The Mechanics
· 4.2-litre straight-six
· Manual transmission
The engine bay is tidily presented with no evidence of leaks, and the stamped numbers match those confirmed by the Heritage certificate. The engine starts readily, idles smoothly and pulls strongly. The gearbox is appropriately slick in its operation, the brakes feel strong, and the Jaguar rides well with the right combination of smoothness with a sporting edge. It’s happy to act as a gentle cruiser or a lively B-road plaything, just as an E-Type should. The car has recently passed its MOT with no advisories. 8.jpg703.81 KB
Summary
For many enthusiasts, the Series 2 E-Type represents the perfect iteration of the breed – the sweet spot in a particularly sweet model line. While the Series 3 sported oft-controversial styling upgrades and a brutish V12 engine, the Series 2’s straight-six is more of a purist setup; at the same time, the 1968-71 cars offer a few choice improvements over the early Series 1 models, including revised seats for greater comfort, and superior engine cooling. And if the Series 2 is the E-Type for you, this particular one makes for a very attractive proposition. A pukka UK right-hand-drive example, complete with Heritage certificate, that’s highly enjoyable to drive.
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