LOT 61
1968 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 1⁄2 4.2 Roadster Chassis no. 1E16622 Engine no. 7D55228-9 (see text)
Estimate: US$160,000 - US$190,000
Lot 61
1968 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 1⁄2 4.2 Roadster
1968 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 1⁄2 4.2 Roadster
Chassis no. 1E16622
Engine no. 7D55228-9 (see text)
Chassis no. 1E16622
Engine no. 7D55228-9 (see text)
4,235cc DOHC Inline 6-Cylinder Engine
Triple SU Carburetors
265bhp at 5,400rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes
*Finished in its original colors of triple black
*Previously owned by professional tennis player Lindsey Davenport
*Extremely well maintained and ready for driving enjoyment
*Original California car
*Features numerous mechanical upgrades benefitting drivability
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.
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 (240km/h) remained unchanged, the main performance gain resulting from the larger engine being improved acceleration.
In 1968 all versions of the E-Type underwent major revisions dictated by 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 to open headlights so the car could be seen from the side at night and to eliminate the possibility of condensation that caused limited visibility.
THE CAR OFFERED
This 1968 Jaguar E-Type "Series 1.5" Roadster is an original California car retaining its original blue CA license plates. The "J68" tag visible next to the data plate was assigned to the car by the California DMV – a unique original feature that is exclusive to California-registered cars from the 1960s. The E-Type is finished in what is believed to be its original and rare and original color combination of black over black with a matching black top, boot, and tonneau cover. Power comes from a 4.2-liter engine with triple SU carbs, and a smooth shifting 4-speed manual fully synchronized transmission. Like all Series 1.5 E-Type's, this example features the larger capacity radiator with dual fans, which improves the cooling. The previous owner of this XKE was a member of the Jaguar Owner's Club of Los Angeles and took great care of the E-Type during his ownership, showing the car at several events, with great results.
Updates include covered headlamps, front and rear European style lenses to enhance the aesthetics, a stainless-steel exhaust system, a Becker AM/FM/cassette radio, Koni shocks and 15" x 6" chrome wire wheels. It also benefits from mechanical upgrades on the period replacement engine including the addition of triple SU carbs, a PerTronix electronic ignition system, and a Monza speed fill oil filler cap. Koni damper and a Wilwood braking system further enhance the driving experience. These tasteful performance and safety upgrades make it ideal for high-speed rallies and tours. The car has just recently completed a full service and detail, including removing and detailing the engine and transmission. A new clutch system was installed with resurfaced flywheel along with freshening of the under bonnet and engine bay compartments.
It is believed to have been owned previously by professional tennis player Lindsey Davenport, who sold the car around 2008, while the restoration was completed around 2006-2007. This beautiful E-Type Roadster presents is a wonderful example of a very clean high-end driver, surely to give many 'smiles per gallon.' 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 the good looks and style only found in the Series 1, with a host of welcome performance enhancements.
Additional information
Looking for a similar item?
Our Cars specialists can help you find a similar item at an auction or via a private sale.
Find your local specialistAuction Viewings
- 23 January 2024, 09:00 - 18:00 MST
- 24 January 2024, 09:00 - 18:00 MST
- 25 January 2024, 09:00 - 10:00 MST
