In 1965 Jaguar refined their first-series XKE by increasing engine displacement to 4.2 liters, installing an improved transmission with synchro 1st gear and making the seats more comfortable—along with numerous lesser developments. Built in April of 1965, this car is accompanied by a Jaguar Heritage Trust Certificate that assures the engine, cylinder head and chassis numbers are all matching.
The beautiful (but rarely seen) Opalescent Maroon color is also original to the car as was the black interior. 1E10953 has only had four owners since new, and we have extensive files of records and receipts documenting the exceptional level of care it has benefitted from. About ten years ago it was given a ground-up restoration that included a professional complete strip and refinishing (no evidence of rust or damage was found) and overhauls of the engine, transmission and differential.
Of course, during reassembly the chrome was replaced, plus all the cooling, electrical and hydraulic systems were restored as well. Instruments were rebuilt (the clock even works!!), weather seals replaced and five new Dunlop chrome wire wheels & period-correct tires were installed. More recently, the last owner had the interior restored with new black leather, carpets and convertible top. The car retains its original Blaupunkt AM-FM radio and no additional speakers or other add-ons have been installed.
Unfortunately, prolonged storage and little use led a thankful of contaminated fuel to ruin the fuel tank, clog the carburetors and caused the valves to stick in their guides. This past August, over $8000 was spent to remove the head, replace all valves & guides, rebuild the carburetors, install a new fuel tank and all lines. The coolant hoses were replaced (with new Cheney clamps) and the exhaust manifold was beautifully porcelain coated. The interior, engine area & chassis are all show-worthy and the paint retains the glow and depth of the high-quality refinish it had received. There are a few minor imperfections that have developed in the last decade, but are hardly noticeable. Included is a complete set of original owner’s books in their pouch and the jack and original tool kit in their proper bags. As is nearly always the case, you could not raise an average car to the level of this one for anything close to the price of $146,500.
