1966 Jaguar E-Type 'Series 1' 4.2-Litre Coupé

Registration no. AHJ 383E Chassis no. 1E33359

Footnotes

"As a high-performance touring car there are few machines to equal the E-Type, and none at all in its price bracket. Effortless is the correct word to describe it, for it is a real mile-eater and also one of the least fatiguing cars to drive... In addition, it carries prestige value, for it is regarded by the most discriminating customers as the best buy in its category which it possible to acquire." – Autosport, 21st August 1964.

Although written more than 40 years ago, Gregor Grant's summary of the E-Type's appeal has lost none of its relevance, despite the model's inevitable evolution from frontline production sports car to collectible modern classic. Grant's road test was published in August 1964, only two months ahead of the E-Type's first significant upgrade, which saw it relaunched with the 4.2-litre version of the peerless XK 'six'. Along with the bigger, torquier engine came a more user-friendly gearbox with synchromesh on first gear, and a superior Lockheed brake servo. Apart from '4.2' badging, the car's external appearance was unchanged but under the skin there were numerous detail improvements. These mainly concerned the cooling and electrical systems, the latter gaining an alternator and adopting the industry standard negative ground, while the interior boasted a matt black dashboard and improved seating arrangements. The top speed of around 150mph remained unchanged, the main performance gain resulting from the larger engine being improved acceleration. Like its 3.8-litre forbear, the 4.2-litre E-Type was built in roadster and coupé forms, and in 1966 gained an additional 2+2 coupé variant on a 9" (229mm) longer wheelbase. In 1968 all three versions of 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.

This exceptionally original 4.2-litre Series 1 E-Type has had only two previous owners, the last of whom kept the car from 1971 to 2018 when it was imported into the UK having spent all of its life in California, USA. Continuously maintained but never restored, it is rust-free and retains most of its original paintwork and interior trim. The panel gaps are described as superb, and the car is said to drive really well. As original and sound an E-Type as you are ever likely to find, this wonderful example is offered with a V5C Registration Certificate and its original guarantee and service book.