Vehicle Description
As the revolutionary XK series reached the end of its development,
Jaguar engineers, led by company founder Sir William Lyons, turned
to the proven template of combining exotic looks and race-proven
technology for its replacement. Lyons and his chief aerodynamicist
Malcolm Sayer worked together to design the new car, drawing
inspiration from the Le Mans-winning D-Type through the use of a
semi-monocoque tub with bolt-on front subframes supporting the
engine and independent front suspension. In a departure from the
live axle-equipped XK series, the E-Type utilized the ingenious
modular independent rear suspension with inboard brakes, first
pioneered on the Mk10 saloon. The E-type also boasted such exotic
tech as four-wheel disc brakes, torsion bar front suspension, and
initially, a 3.8-liter version of the XK's twin-cam inline-six
pumping out an impressive 265 horsepower. Co-designer Malcolm Sayer
had no interest in designing a car based purely on aesthetics;
instead, he was far more interested in aerodynamics and allowing
his interpretations of airflow to guide the shape. The E-Type
followed a natural progression from the path set by the D-Type
racing car, with evocative curves and a purposeful, aggressive
stance. Upon debut at the 1961 Geneva Auto Salon, it was met with
near-universal acclaim, and legend has it that even Enzo Ferrari
declared it the most beautiful car he had ever seen. For all of the
exotic style and technology, Jaguar managed to build the car to a
price point that was half of its nearest competitors. In 1964, the
E-Type got its first significant update. Wisely, the styling
remained mostly unchanged, but there was big news under the
clamshell bonnet. The twin-cam inline-six got the second boost in
displacement since its introduction in 1949, now up to 4.2 liters.
The other big news was the addition of an all-new gearbox to
replace the somewhat archaic four-speed Moss' box in the 3.8-liter
cars. The new unit was still four speeds, but with a vastly
improved shift feel and a synchronized first gear. Also upgraded
were the four-wheel disc brakes, which got a new booster to address
complaints about pedal feel and stopping power. These mechanical
updates elevated the E-Type 4.2 to hero status among enthusiasts,
and the Series 1 4.2 stands as one of the most desirable production
models of the E-Type range. This desirable Series 1 4.2 fixed-head
coupe is a fine example for the driving enthusiast seeking an
E-Type to enjoy on tours, rallies, and club events. A
numbers-matching example that is mechanically dialed-in, this car
is presented in its original color combination of Opalescent Maroon
over black leather. According to the Jaguar Daimler Heritage
Certificate, this car was dispatched from Coventry on May 24, 1965,
and shipped to the United States through Jaguar Cars, New York.
Further details of its history aren't known, although the car
appears to be in mostly unrestored condition, excepting some
paintwork as needed. It's most recent owner was a Jaguar enthusiast
who maintained the car in excellent mechanical condition. This car
presents with a moderate yet appealing patina; the opalescent
maroon paintwork is slightly faded and crazed in places, and the
chrome shows some slight hazing. It rides on excellent chrome
knock-off wire wheels with newer radial tires. It could readily be
enjoyed as-is, or make an excellent basis for a straightforward
cosmetic freshening if the next owner desires. The interior is in
mostly original condition, with careworn black leather upholstery,
and tidy carpets and headlining. The seats show some creasing and
fading on the surface, but like a broken-in old baseball glove,
they have a marvelous character and are quite comfortable. The dash
features original instrumentation, toggle switches, and original
wood-rimmed three-spoke steering wheel. The factory-correct console
houses a slightly later vintage Blaupunkt AM/FM radio in place of
the standard original Radiomobile. Behind the seats is a generous
cargo area, accessed through the distinct side-hinged rear hatch.
The load floor has correct black vinyl upholstery with rub-rails
for effortless loading of a weekend's worth of luggage. The factory
4.2-liter inline-six presents in good and tidy condition under the
bonnet. It retains the original numbers-matching block and head per
the data tag and Heritage Certificate. On a recent road test, the
car performed beautifully, feeling tight, planted, and with the
velvety-smooth character and stout performance expected from a 4.2
E-Type. Handling feel is superb, thanks in part to the excellent
Koni Classic dampers and grippy radial tires. Suspension and
chassis components are correctly finished, and the front sub frames
are in good order. The front "picture frame" radiator support still
bears the original chassis number, indicating it has never been
replaced due to corrosion or accident damage as many cars have. The
engine bay is clean, orderly, and appropriately detailed for a car
that is well-suited to regular driving. The E-Type is a true
motoring icon, and this Series 1 4.2-liter Fixed Head Coupe
represents its purest and most desirable form. The shape is
unmistakable, and the performance is wholly memorable. This is a
great car to enjoy as-is or to treat to a straight forward cosmetic
freshening. As offered, this numbers-matching coupe is a superb
choice for the enthusiast seeking a sorted, on-the-button E-Type
for JCNA club events, casual rallies, or simply to explore your
favorite back roads. Offers welcome and trades considered
