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LOT 202

1968 Jaguar E-Type Series 1½ 4.2 Roadster Chassis no. 1E17550 Engine no. 7E8853-9 (See Text)

Estimate: US$130,000 - US$160,000
Lot 202

1968 Jaguar E-Type Series 1½ 4.2 Roadster

1968 Jaguar E-Type Series 1½ 4.2 Roadster
Chassis no. 1E17550
Engine no. 7E8853-9 (See Text)

4,235cc DOHC Inline 6-Cylinder Engine
Triple Weber 45 DCOE Carburetors (See Text)
265bhp at 5,400rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes

*Documented comprehensive restoration completed in 2015
*Tuned, performance-built engine
*Late, open headlight Series 1 1⁄2 Open Two-Seater
*Accompanied with receipts and Jaguar Heritage Trust Certificate
*Great example for showing as well as vintage rallie


THE JAGUAR E-TYPE

The first significant up-grade of Jaguar's sensational E-Type sports car occurred in October 1964 with the launch of the 4.2-liter version. 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.

Being described as "The most beautiful car" by Enzo Ferrari, the Jaguar E-type epitomized the glamour and excitement of the 60s. The E-Type became a "Must Have" accessory for the jet set like Princess Grace, Steve McQueen, Tony Curtiss, Charlton Heston, Frank Sinatra and many others.

In 1968 all three versions of the E-Type underwent major revision to comply with US safety and emissions legislation. Interior changes included a collapsible steering column and rocker switches in place of the earlier toggles. The primary exterior change was open headlights so the car could be seen from the side at night and to eliminate condensation that caused limited visibility and rust.


THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

One of the very last Series 1 E-types ever made (1 of only 2,328 issued around the world in 1968); before the Series 2 the following year. This open headlight, late Series 1—colloquially known as a Series 1.5—Jaguar E-Type Roadster was built on April 4, 1968 and left the Browns Lane factory in Coventry just about a month later on the 29th of April. This Roadster is currently finished in a stunning red exterior with black leather interior and a black convertible top. It was originally imported through Jaguar Cars of New York, where it made its way to its first owner Lana J Owens. The current owner of the car acquired the car in 1975 in Birmingham, Alabama.

The Roadster on offer here has only traveled less than 500 miles since a full comprehensive full restoration by Jaguar marque specialist Simpson Racing and Classic Restoration of Buford, Georgia. Every aspect of this car is in new condition including the complete drive train, suspension, electrical components, interior and convertible top. Special features include triple Weber 45 DCOE carburetors, Factory European specification high-speed touring 3:07 rear-end ratio and Dunlop specification 'Cross-Lace' high strength wire wheels. Devoid of the large taillights, heavy bumpers, and additional fittings that came to be a hallmark of later E-Types, the Series 1.5 retains all of the good looks and style only found in the Series 1.

The restoration began in 2013 and was completed in 2015. The engine was completely torn down and rebuilt. The original cylinder head was utilized on a replacement short block and built to handle some increased horsepower for a more enjoyable driving experience. With the added triple Weber carburetors, stainless steel tuned exhaust manifold and stainless exhaust system, this powerplant was fine-tuned on an engine dynamometer to the tune of 237 horsepower at the flywheel (standard engine dyno horsepower levels are usually around 210). The original 4-speed gearbox was rebuilt along with a new clutch assembly, new driveshaft u-joints, a complete suspension rebuild along with brakes and axles. The car received a new wiring harness, alternator, starter motor, heater motor, new glass and a new interior featuring new seats and convertible top. The original steering wheel was refinished and the car had a tonneau cockpit cover made for it.

The car will be accompanied by its original carburetors/intake system, original set of wheels, a restoration file, receipts documenting thousands of dollars for restoration parts and services and its Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust Certificate. An ear-to-ear grin is virtually guaranteed once out on the open road with the top down in this sleek Jag. The sound of the performance exhaust combined with the high flowing Weber's will make for an exhilarating driving experience. Surely a wonderful opportunity to acquire a well sorted open top Jaguar.

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