1965 JAGUAR XKE ROADSTER
The Jaguar E-Type is widely revered as one of the most beautiful and desirable sports cars ever created, and its popularity has hardly waned from the day it first shocked onlookers at the Geneva Motor Show nearly 60 years ago. Produced between 1961 and 1975, the E-Type evolved through several generations, beginning with the 3.8-liter Series 1, and culminating with the vastly transformed twelve-cylinder Series 3. Most marque enthusiasts and collectors agree that the Series 1 4.2-liter coupe and roadster represent the sweet spot in the E-Type’s lineage. These are the most sought-after of the regular production models, combining the purity and sex appeal of the original design with the torque-rich 4.2-liter “XK” inline-six, an all-synchromesh gearbox, improved brakes, and a more comfortable, user-friendly cockpit. Coveted by everyday enthusiasts around the world, S1 4.2 E-Types are considered essential collector cars and superb examples are found in the world’s most prominent collections.
This beautiful 1965 E-Type OTS ticks all the boxes of desirability. It delivers the open-air motoring experience in Open Two-Seater configuration, retains its original numbers-matching 4.2-litre XK inline six, benefits from a superbly finished restoration by a marque specialist, and is finished in the archetypal British Racing Green. The Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust Certificate shows this car was delivered new via Jaguar Cars, New York to Robert Chain of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in the summer of 1965, and that it left the works finished in dark green over a light tan interior, and fitted with a tan convertible top.
In the early 2000s, this car was in the care of a collector on the West Coast. In 2007, it was acquired by the Jaguar restoration specialists Classic Showcase, who noted the car was an original, unmolested car at the time, and an ideal candidate for a straightforward restoration. The car was stripped and refinished in its original shade of dark green, and fitted with a new black interior and black Stayfast canvas top. The engine and gearbox were both stripped and rebuilt, and fully detailed to a high standard before being reunited with the chassis. The engine rebuild included new pistons, timing chain, oil pump, balanced crank, a fully refreshed cylinder head and all new bearings, seals, and gaskets. An accompanying photo DVD documents much of the restoration and mechanical overhaul.
The restoration was completed in 2008, and the E-Type has gone on to live a charmed life, remaining in superb condition. The green paintwork is rich and glossy, with beautifully straight bodywork and exemplary panel alignment. Chrome and brightwork is similarly outstanding, and the car rides on gorgeous chrome knock-off wire wheels shod with period-correct Michelin tires. In the boot, a Hardura jack bag houses a restored jack, and the car retains its original Dunlop SP Sport spare tire!
The black upholstery is excellent, with correct leather, vinyl, and carpet materials used throughout the cockpit. Switches and controls are proper original items, and the instruments were rebuilt and a new wiring harness fitted as part of the restoration. Similar attention to detail continues beneath the clamshell bonnet, with highly polished alloy cam covers and carburetors and a proper gold-painted cylinder head. The 4.2-litre ‘six not only looks great, but it sounds great, and is on-the-button. Thanks to the extensive overhaul of the engine and gearbox, it drives exceptionally well, with the power and long-legged touring ability expected of a well-sorted E-Type. The underside is also well detailed, with protective textured undercoat on the body and authentically plated suspension components.
The E-Type is undoubtedly an icon of motoring, with legions of fans the world over who have fallen for its beauty, grace, and performance. Beautifully detailed and fully sorted for driving enjoyment, this gorgeous, expertly restored example is sure to satisfy its next custodian for many years to come.
Offers welcome and trades considered
$239,500
STOCK NUMBER 7562
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