Vehicle Description
When the revolutionary XK series reached the end of its
development, Jaguar engineers, led by company founder Sir William
Lyons, relied again on the proven template of combining exotic
looks and race-proven technology offered at a surprisingly
affordable price. Lyons and his chief designer Malcolm Sayer worked
together on the new design, drawing inspiration from the Le
Mans-winning D-Type's semi-monocoque tub with bolt-on front
sub-frames supporting the engine and independent front suspension.
The new E-Type also featured a version of the ingenious modular
independent rear suspension and inboard brakes pioneered on the
Mk10 saloon. The E-type also boasted such exotic tech as four-wheel
disc brakes, torsion bar front suspension, and a 3.8-liter version
of the XK's twin-cam inline-six pumping out an impressive 265
horsepower; numbers one would expect from a car costing twice as
much. Co-designer Malcolm Sayer had little interest in pure
aesthetics; instead, he was far more concerned with how
aerodynamics influenced his designs. The E-Type followed the
natural progression forged by the D-Type racing car, namely in its
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 in the world. Today, the E-Type is still regarded as
one of the most significant pieces of industrial design of the
twentieth century, regularly topping lists charting the "most
beautiful car ever." E-Types are in many of the world's finest
collections, yet they remain accessible to the average enthusiast,
thanks to relatively large production numbers. Many consider the
E-Type a cornerstone of the collector car hobby, with iconic beauty
and 150-mph performance combining to give it near-universal appeal.
This 1962 Open Two-Seat roadster is a desirable early 3.8-liter
car, presented in excellent condition and with a sharp livery. It
is an attractive and nicely sorted example, with a well-maintained
and detailed older restoration. The Jaguar Daimler Heritage
certificate shows this is a US specification car, delivered to its
first owner through BMC Distributors in Portland, Oregon in the
spring of 1962. This E-Type is among the last of the early "flat
floor" cars before a recessed footwell was added. Originally cream
over red, the current black over red livery suits it very well,
indeed. The restoration has mellowed lightly, and it remains quite
attractive, with glossy paintwork and thoughtful details including
genuine Lucas headlamps, chrome knock-off wire wheels, and
period-style Avon radial tires. The owners enjoyed this car on the
road since the restoration, resulting in some minor touchups and
imperfections. Despite these minimal blemishes, the car is very
attractive overall and will no doubt turn heads out on the open
road. The beautiful red leather interior is true to original
specification per the Heritage Certificate. It features the correct
fixed-back seats unique to 3.8-liter models, as well as the
embossed aluminum alloy inserts in the center console and
instrument panel. It appears very well restored, using high-quality
English leather, Wilton wool carpets, and factory-correct vinyl on
the dash, sills, and parcel shelf. The seats are excellent, showing
minimal creasing in the leather, and only the slightest bit of
scuffing on the outer bolsters from ingress/egress. Switches,
instruments, and controls are correct, including the early-style
shift knob and the lovely wood-rimmed three-spoke steering wheel.
The black Haartz canvas soft top fits well and is good order, as is
the restored top frame and matching black canvas boot cover. The
trunk features proper biscuit-colored Hardura trim and houses an
original jack bag and tool kit. Beneath the clamshell bonnet sits a
period-correct 3.8-liter inline-six, detailed with its signature
polished cam covers, gold cylinder head, and alloy carburetor
bodies. The engine compartment is very tidy and clean, looking
well-maintained since the restoration. Suspension arms and chassis
components are also nicely restored, and the car is updated with
Koni dampers front and rear to tighten up the handling. Collector
owned and well-maintained, this 3.8 OTS is a superb example for any
enthusiast desiring a lovely open-topped E-Type for use on rallies
and driving events. The lightly matured restoration balances
attractive cosmetics with a charming, road-ready character that
encourages many miles of wind-in-the-hair motoring. Please note
this car is titled as a 1963 model. Offers welcome and trades
considered For additional details please view this listing directly
on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/6652-1962-jaguar-xke-roadster/