Gorgeous 4.2-litre Series 2 E-Type in desirable ‘open two seater’ configuration and benefiting from a superb restoration whilst under current ownership
Stunning colour combination of Cream with a black mohair hood over a retrimmed black leather interior
Original matching-numbers UK-supplied RHD example
The Appeal
A true icon, the Jaguar E-Type stunned the motoring world when it made its debut at the 1961 Geneva Motor Show. A replacement for the outgoing XK series of sports cars, the new E-type was a development of Jaguar’s highly successful Le Mans winning D-type and featured a gorgeous aerodynamic body penned by Malcolm Sayer.
The E-Type’s beauty was matched only by its technical prowess and under that shapely body was a masterpiece of automotive engineering. Featuring an advanced monocoque shell with subframes supporting drivetrain and suspension components, the E-Type was strong, light and dynamic and was consequently able to easily outperform many of its contemporaries.
Always undergoing a process of continual development, the Series 2 iteration arrived in 1968 and brought with it improved engine cooling, updated interior trim and seating and a new wrap around rear bumper.
Offered here for auction in stunning ‘open two seater’ configuration and benefiting from a no-expense spared restoration under current ownership, this very special E-Type now represents a fabulous opportunity to acquire a superb example of one of the most beautiful cars ever built.
The History and Paperwork
V5 present
MOT exempt, we note last tested in January 2020 and passed with no advisories
7 keepers
Two large lever-arch files of documents detailing previous history and restoration work
Photographic record of restoration work undertaken whilst under current ownership
Jaguar heritage certificate confirming original specification and build date
Very smart interior cabin benefiting from a full re-trim undertaken during its recent restoration
The archetypal E-Type driving experience, with banks of beautiful Smiths gauges and a large wood-rimmed steering wheel featuring the iconic chequered flag central boss
Fitted with the more comfortable and supportive Series 2 seats with headrests and safety belts for driver and passenger
Benefiting from an interior retrim whilst undergoing restoration, the cabin of this E-Type presents today in a very lovely condition indeed.
Clearly restored with a view to maintaining the upmost originality, it’s great to see that this particular E-Type interior has lost none of its original charm during its recent restoration, unlike so many of its contemporaries.
Featuring a padded black vinyl dashboard with a row of classic Jaguar rocker switches and a bank of iconic Smiths gauges, the monochrome interior of this E-Type is in pleasing contrast to the large and richly coloured original wooden steering wheel.
Looking around the compact cabin of this lovely E-Type, the replacement carpets present very nicely as do the diminutive door cards. Internal brightwork such as the door handles, window winders and decorative chrome strips also all appear in A1 condition and nicely finish the period appeal.
The Exterior
Gorgeous ‘open two seater’ body presented in the stunning period shade of Cream with a replacement black mohair hood
Fitted with chrome wire wheels shod in rubber with excellent tread all round
Body and underside present in an excellent restored condition
Sitting here on a gleaming set of factory chrome wire wheels, it would be very hard to argue that this soft top E-Type is anything but a contender for one of the world’s most beautiful cars.
On approaching the Jaguar it’s clear that its restoration was undertaken to a very high standard. Body panels all appear very straight and free of damage or corrosion, additionally the shut lines around the bonnet, doors and boot are also excellent – no mean feat when it comes to an E-Type!
Contrasting nicely against the period exterior shade of Cream, the brightwork of this E-Type also looks to be in a fabulous and complete condition, apart from the rear badging which we are told was not reinstated following restoration as the owner did not wish to drill holes into his freshly restored boot lid!
Being a Series 2 example, the key exterior features include a larger frontal opening for improved cooling, improved exterior lighting and a wrap-around rear bumper providing improved bodywork protection.
The Mechanics
Featuring Jaguar’s legendary 4.2-litre straight six engine fitted with triple SU carburettors
Rebuilt 4-speed manual gearbox with synchromesh on all gears
Impressive 265 BHP giving genuinely brisk performance even by today’s standards
Given the extensive attention lavished on this E-Type in recent years it’s no surprise to learn that mechanically this big cat is in rude health.
Delivering stunning performance in period, even today the E-Type feels every bit the capable sports car when out on the road.
Blessed with independent suspension all round, a strong monocoque shell and 4-wheel disc brakes, the E-Type set a high watermark for sports car performance and handling, qualities still very much evident today.
We are told that the E-Type fires up keenly and out on the road performs without fault. Featuring the desirable 4-speed manual box, the E-Type feels eager to perform and changes cleanly and smoothly through its gears.
When required, powered 4-wheel disc brakes provide ample stopping power and bring the E-Type quickly and cleanly to a halt.
Summary
As mesmerising today as it was 60 years ago, the Jaguar E-Type will forever be considered one of the world’s most beautiful cars.
Coming from long-term ownership and presented here in a fine restored condition, this highly desirable manual Series 2 OTS E-Type would be sure to make a superb addition to any enthusiast’s garage.
BEFORE YOU BUY
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