Highlights
- Painstakingly restored by the vendor between 2012 and 2016
- Matching numbers 4.2-litre straight-six with a manual gearbox
- Former dealer demonstrator at Henlys, Chester
- Used to tour Scotland, Ireland and the European continent extensively since completed
- Tastefully upgraded with a modern satellite navigation / infotainment system neatly integrated into the dashboard
The Appeal
With styling that was the envy of the world, performance far exceeding almost anything that had gone before and an enviable reputation for fine handling, the E-Type simply must be regarded as one of the greatest sports cars of all time.
Here we have a delightful 1969 open two-seater that’s been painstakingly restored by the current owner. All of this Jaguar’s mechanicals, including its 4.2-litre straight-six, four-speed manual gearbox and suspension system have been completely rebuilt. Since heading back out on the road in 2016, the vendor has successfully toured Scotland, Ireland and the European continent with no issues to report.
If you’re looking for a thoroughly sorted convertible E-Type, then look no further than this beautifully presented example.
The History and Paperwork
- We’re informed that this was one of Henlys of Chester’s demonstrators
- Just four previous keepers
- Originally painted Primrose Yellow, now British Racing Green
- Copy of the original ‘Operating, Maintenance and Servicing Handbook’
- V5C present
- Exempt from road tax and MOT testing
- Jaguar Heritage Certificate - confirming matching numbers
- Accompanied by numerous invoices for parts and any of the restoration work that was outsourced
- Acquired by the vendor in 2012 as a painted shell with all the parts in boxes
- Restored and regularly serviced by the vendor, a retired engineer
- The vendor has covered around 12,000 miles since completing the rebuild, so the car is now nicely run in and ready to be enjoyed by its new owner
The Interior
- All new and fitted by the vendor
- Trim kit sourced from Aldridge Trimming
- Tastefully upgraded with a modern satellite navigation / infotainment system
The vendor shows us that the interior was all replaced during the restoration, a task they completed themselves using a kit from Aldridge Trimming. We enjoy how the Suede Green leather upholstery matches the British Racing Green exterior and it has clearly been installed to an exemplary standard.
Having been replaced fairly recently, there’s not a great deal to report when it comes to wear. We noticed some slight patination to the driver’s door handle, but otherwise the leather remains free from cracking or excessive wear.
The three-spoke wood-rimmed steering wheel looks fabulous and feels great in your hands. The same can be said for the handbrake and gear lever which are very ergonomic. The dashboard appears in great shape and we understand that all the switchgear and instrumentation works correctly including an additional control to override the cooling fan. The vendor points out a neatly integrated modern satellite navigation / infotainment system within a custom made console. Should the next owner wish to remove these, the original trim piece is apparently supplied with the car.
The carpeting presents really nicely throughout, including the inside of the boot where we also find a full-size spare wheel and the necessary tools for changing them.
The Exterior
- British Racing Green paintwork
- Very straight bodywork with no signs of damage or corrosion
- Attractive chromed wire wheels
- New hood and tonneau was fitted by County Coach Trimmers
- Rechroming carried out where necessary
We can’t help staring at this car. They say that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but an E-Type is objectively magnificent to look at. This example has been finished to a very high standard and looks fabulous in British Racing Green.
The shell was already painted when the vendor acquired it and we can see that the work was completed really well. There are very few blemishes and no visible scratches. We couldn’t see any corrosion and the vendor assures us that it’s incredibly sound underneath. All the panels align nicely and the doors apparently shut as they should.
A new soft top and tonneau were fitted by County Coach Trimmers and the whole assembly looks to be in excellent condition. The badging and brightwork appears smart and without any obvious signs of damage. The wire wheels are chromed too and the vendor informs us that there’s ample tread remaining on the tyres.
The Mechanics
- Rebuilt 4.2-litre straight-six
- Rebuilt SU carburettors
- Rebuilt four-speed manual gearbox and differential
- New clutch fitted
- New brake lines, callipers and master cylinder
- Rebuilt suspension with new bushes and shock absorbers
- Overhauled and partially replaced electrics with a 123 electronic ignition fitted along with a high-torque starter motor
Just about everything mechanical and electrical was rebuilt or replaced during the restoration and much of the work was completed by the vendor. The next owner will be able to enjoy this car in the knowledge that it has been judiciously maintained in recent years and the engine is still very fresh.
The vendor informs us that the 4.2-litre straight-six runs beautifully and produces plenty of power. The four-speed manual gearbox makes for an engaging drive and everything is said to feel tight and responsive.
Summary
This is a fabulous example that’s both mechanically and cosmetically sorted to a very high degree. If you’re after a usable E-Type that’s also in show-worthy condition, then don’t miss this fantastic 1969 open two-seater.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
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