1967 Jaguar E-Type 4.2-Litre Series I½ Roadster

Registration no. RDO 171 Chassis no. 1E1915

Footnotes

Launched in October 1964, the 4.2-litre version of Jaguar's sensational E-Type sports car brought with it a more user-friendly all-synchromesh gearbox and a superior Lockheed brake servo along with the bigger, torquier engine. Top speed remained the same at around 150mph, the main performance gain resulting from the larger engine being improved acceleration.

For 1968 the E-Type underwent major revision to comply with US safety and emissions legislation, emerging in 'Series 2' guise minus the original's distinctive headlight covers. In addition, enlarged side and rear lights were adopted while a thickened front bumper centre section bridged a larger radiator intake. Interior changes included a collapsible steering column, and rocker switches in place of the earlier toggles. Beneath the bonnet the familiar XK engine now boasted ribbed cam covers and, on cars destined for North America, twin Stromberg carburettors, replacing the previous triple SUs that remained standard on those supplied to other markets. From late 1967 the E-Type began to embody some of these forthcoming modifications, these interim cars coming to be known as the 'Series 1½' although there was never a fixed specification for this unofficial 'model'. The Series 1½ E-Types are a relatively rare, combining the looks of a Series 1 with some of the improvements of the Series 2.

Manufactured in 1967 during this transitional period, this UK-supplied 'Series 1½' was first registered new in November 1967 to a Mr Alastair Gilchrist of Esher, Surrey, who owned it for 11 years. It was then sold to another Surrey resident and remained in his ownership for 34 years before being purchased circa 2012 by the immediately preceding owner. The latter commissioned renowned marque specialists M & C Wilkinson of Everton to carry out extensive mechanical works to the engine, gearbox, clutch, and brakes at a cost of approximately £10,000, details of which can be found in the comprehensive history file.

More recently, in 2016, a re-spray was carried out in the car's original colour of Opalescent Silver Blue. Other works carried out at this time included replacing the door rubbers, detailing the engine bay, re-chroming the brightwork, re-trimming the interior in dark blue leather, and fitting a new hood. Finally, the chrome wire wheels were re-shod with a set of new and correct Dunlop Aquajet tyres. It is understood that the total cost of the aforementioned restoration works totalled around £20,000. As one would expect from such careful custodianship, the E-Type presents in beautiful condition today. The current vendor has owned the E-Type since May 2018. Combing the sublime looks of the original with the more powerful 4.2-litre engine and user-friendly all-synchromesh gearbox, these Series 1½ cars are among the most sought-after of all E-Types, especially in Roadster form, as exemplified by the fine example seen here.