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Vehicle Description
Throughout the iconic E-Type's long production run, Jaguar made a
host of running changes to improve the car's performance and
reliability, all while trying to keep pace with a rapidly changing
automobile market. Ever-evolving safety and emissions regulations,
particularly in the critical American market, were like a moving
target. For a small company like Jaguar, keeping up was a constant
battle. Without the resources of a major automaker, many of the
necessary evolutions of the E-Type took place gradually as parts
were used up and new items introduced to the assembly line. As a
result, E-Types come in a variety of specifications, some with more
drastic changes than others, and each with a unique character and
loyal enthusiast following. After the original 3.8-liter model set
the stage for the E-Type's success in 1961, an improved 4.2-liter
version of the E-Type superseded it for the 1965 model year. Torque
and flexibility improved, and a revised interior offered superior
comfort. New regulations from the USA forced Jaguar's hand to
change the E-Type again in late 1967. Halfway through the model
year, the covered headlamps of the original design gave way to a
new, safety-mandated open headlamp layout that carried over to the
Series II, while the rear of the car remained unchanged. Other
differences included the use of rocker switches in place of toggles
and the fitment of twin Stromberg carburetors in place of the
triple S.U. carbs in a bid to improve emissions. These interim cars
are colloquially known as "Series 1.5" (officially, they are still
within the Series 1 4.2-liter series). Series 1.5's differ from car
to car as Jaguar used up stocks of old parts. By late in 1968, the
fully developed Series II arrived, marking the end of the very
short-lived, interim Series 1.5. This 1968 E-Type OTS roadster is
one of a handful of original Series 1.5 models produced. This
example features select improvements to "backdate" the car closer
to desirable Series 1 specification and is the subject of a
good-looking amateur-level cosmetic restoration. Finished in Carmen
Red over a black interior, the car is crisp and attractive with
good detailing all around. The most obvious alteration is the
fitment of an earlier, covered-headlamp Series 1 bonnet which
brings the E-Type back to its classic, original styling. The Carmen
Red paintwork is consistently glossy and appealing, with a few
minor imperfections and evidence of filler found on closer
inspection. Overall, however, the bodywork appears to be very good,
with straight reflections and satisfactory panel fit. The
brightwork is similarly attractive, with restored bumpers and
wheels mixed with good original minor trim pieces. The chrome wire
wheels are in excellent condition, wearing correct non-eared
knockoffs and recently-fitted black wall Vredestein Sprint Classic
radials. The black upholstery presents in excellent order for an
enjoyable driver's car such as this. This car saw regular enjoyment
in the hands of the most recent owner, and the interior shows some
signs of use while remaining clean, tidy, and in fine overall
condition. Rocker switches give this away as a Series 1.5, and the
remainder of the switchgear and instrumentation consists of good
original items. The interior is mostly standard save for a modern
stereo and speakers in the original location in the center console.
Door panels and sills are covered with correct vinyl material, and
the black carpets are clean and tidy. Tan Stayfast canvas topping
is in good condition, save for a couple of minor cosmetic blemishes
that do little to detract from its function or overall
presentation. Beneath the clamshell bonnet sits the legendary
4.2-liter, twin-overhead camshaft XK inline-six. A trio of S.U.
carburetors sit in place of the troublesome, emissions-choked twin
Stromberg setup. This proven arrangement not only frees up a few
ponies, but it is also simpler to maintain and far more tractable
on the road. The engine number matches that on the chassis tag, and
the cylinder head retains the original late-style fluted cam
covers. Wisely, the improved braking and twin-fan cooling systems
of the S1.5 are in place. Coming from a period of storage, some
minor additional sorting may be necessary to return the car to full
health. Chassis upgrades include a full set of Spax adjustable
dampers front and rear, and the undercarriage presentation is
honest and appropriate for an enjoyable driver's car. With its
attractive presentation and subtle upgrades, this E-Type OTS
represents excellent value for the enthusiast; delivering the looks
and performance of the iconic early E-Type combined with the
improved road manners of the later models. This sharp example is
well-suited for club events and regular on-road enjoyment. Offers
welcome and trades considered
