Description
1966 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 4. 2-Litre OTS
A meticulously preserved and comprehensively restored numbers-matching example, recently elevated to Concours standards.
VIN: 1E11519
Engine: 7E5664-09
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
This 1966 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 Open Two Seater is a numbers-matching example that has received an exhaustive, open-checkbook restoration. Having covered just 49, 000 miles from new, it was first prepared for Preservation-class judging before being upgraded to current Concours-level condition. The car is accompanied by extensive documentation, including a pre-purchase inspection report, the Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust Certificate, and a detailed log of over $100, 000 in restoration work.
History & Provenance
A three-owner car, with the last owner owning the car for 30 years of its life.
Acquired by the current owner in 2016 from the estate of its long-term keeper.
Driven only 12, 000 miles between 1973 and 2016, and always stored in a climate-controlled environment.
The first 31, 000 miles were serviced by the original selling dealer; service receipts date back to the initial 1, 000-mile service.
Restoration & Preservation
Since 2016, the car has undergone a phased, nut-and-bolt restoration focused on preserving its original character while ensuring superior reliability and presentation.
Preservation Foundation (2016-2023):
The car was initially prepared for JCNA Preservation Class judging.
It earned Best in Class at a 2023 JCNA regional meet and Best Preservation at the 2023 Radnor Hunt Concours.
Dated components related to safety and reliability were rebuilt, not replaced, in accordance with preservation guidelines.
Concours-Level Upgrades (2023-2025):
The body was repainted in its original cream using a Spies Hecker base/ clear system.
The engine and transmission were removed for detailed work; the front space frame and trunk were repainted.
The engine bay was cleaned using dry ice vapor blasting to preserve original wiring.
Unpainted ancillaries, such as the intake manifold and carburetors, were refinished via vapor honing.
The original undercoating was sealed, and the floorboard acoustic treatment remains intact. No rust repair was required.
Mechanical & Electrical Highlights
Engine & Transmission: A full valve job and main crankshaft seal replacement were performed by marque specialist Lippincott Jaguar. Lower engine mechanicals were inspected and declared "like new." The transmission was refreshed by Quantum Mechanics.
Drivetrain & Suspension: Full suspension and differential rebuild completed.
Systems: Key components renewed include the distributor (upgraded with Pertronix electronic ignition), brake calipers, voltage regulator, ignition wires, and a new battery.
Fluids & Cooling: All fluids have been replaced, including a permanent waterless Evans coolant system.
Interior, Top & Trim
The interior features original Dark Navy Blue Ambla trim and Hardura panels.
New Wilton carpets were commissioned, with the original foot pads sewn into the new pile by John Skinner, Ltd. in England.
New leather seats and boot trim have been fitted.
