Description
JAGUAR TYPE E SERIES 1 FHC — 1965 MATCHING NUMBERS • LHD, LEFT-HAND DRIVE ORIGINAL • 6 CYLINDERS 4. 2 L • FRESH PAINT • INTERIOR REFURBISHED • DOCUMENTED MECHANICAL RESTORATION • FRENCH REGISTRATION DOCUMENT CORRECT SPECIFICATION Much more pleasant and comfortable than the early Series 1 models There are classic motorcars that we appreciate for their history. And then there are those whose silhouette alone is enough to turn heads, several decades after their debut. The Jaguar Type E unquestionably belongs to this second category. Unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in 1961, it immediately made its mark on the history of automotive design. Drawn by Malcolm Sayer under the direction of William Lyons, it inherited the aerodynamic legacy of the Type D whilst adopting a particularly advanced design for its era. The famous quote attributed to Enzo Ferrari — "the most beautiful car in the world" — greatly contributed to forging its legend. Beyond this quotation, whose exact wording varies depending on the source, one thing is beyond doubt: the Type E became one of the most recognisable and most desirable motorcars of the twentieth century. From 1964 onwards, with the move to the 4. 2-litre version, bucket seats gave way to more comfortable reclining seats. The dashboard and centre console were also covered in Rexine with Connolly leather inserts. The radiator, cooling system and fan were likewise improved on the 4. 2-litre. The Moss gearbox of the early versions was replaced by a fully synchronised Jaguar gearbox, more pleasant and efficient in use. A PARTICULARLY INTERESTING EXAMPLE The example we are offering is a Jaguar Type E Series 1 FHC (Fixed Head Coupé), 1965 model, equipped with the legendary 4. 2-litre straight-six engine. This motorcar was imported new to France by ROYAL ELYSÉES, 80 rue de Longchamp, Paris 16e, then the official importer for the marque. It is Matching Numbers, a fact confirmed by its Jaguar Heritage Certificate. Although corresponding to a 1965 model, it was not delivered and registered until January 1967. At that time, delivery times could reach 12 to 18 months, testament to the enthusiasm generated by the Type E from its launch. This second generation of Series 1 benefits from numerous improvements that make it particularly pleasant to drive, whether in relaxed use or at a more spirited pace. THE 4. 2-LITRE SIX-CYLINDER: THE MOST REFINED VERSION OF THE SERIES 1 The 4. 2-litre Series 1, produced from 1964 to 1966, offers more civilised and comfortable driving than the earlier versions. Its straight-six engine increased from 3. 8 to 4. 2 litres, with increased torque, from 353 Nm at 4, 000 rpm for the 3. 8-litre to 384 Nm at 4, 000 rpm for the 4. 2-litre. This engine constitutes one of the great strengths of this generation. Its flexibility is remarkable, its operation particularly smooth and its acceleration impressive. The claimed top speed reaches 230 km/ h, whilst the 0 to 100 km/ h is given as approximately 7 seconds. Coupled with the fully synchronised gearbox, this mechanical package makes the 4. 2-litre Type E considerably more pleasant to use on a daily basis. SIGNIFICANT MECHANICAL AND COSMETIC WORK The appeal of this motorcar does not lie solely in its aesthetics. In 2022 and 2025, it benefited from substantial mechanical and cosmetic restoration, carried out by a recognised professional. Over €20, 000 in invoices accompany this work. The principal interventions notably concerned: • Engine and gearbox overhaul • Ignition system overhaul • Spark plug and contact breaker replacement • Engine, gearbox, differential oil changes, etc. • Brake system overhaul and replacement of worn components • New radiator equipped with a new-generation electric fan • New expansion tank • Replacement of the cabin heater radiator • Replacement of rigid hose with stainless steel element • Complete bodywork restoration • Particularly careful alignment of all opening panels • Fresh paint applied in 2025, with three coats of lacquer for excellent depth • Complete interior refurbishment For a collector of classic Jaguars, this recent history represents a genuine asset. This is not simply an old motorcar that has been preserved: it is a car that has benefited from significant mechanical and cosmetic investment in order to be used in good condition. AN ELEGANT AND AUTHENTIC PRESENTATION The bodywork displays a superb Opalescent Gun finish, a dark metallic grey particularly elegant on the Type E. The paint, applied in 2025, is today in excellent condition. The interior retains all the atmosphere that makes the charm...
