Description
1961 Jaguar E-Type Series I Roadster
s/n 875773, Engine no. R2149-9
Cream with Navy Leather Interior
In March of 1961 when the E-Type was unveiled to the world, it was a truly stunning and groundbreaking car. Its specification was state of the art, its bodywork arrestingly gorgeous, and the price surprisingly affordable. It embodied William Lyons` value beautifully and it is no surprise that the E-Type has become such a legendary part of automotive history. The specification clearly demonstrated Jaguar`s racing experience and included independent suspension all around (at a time when Ferrari was still using live rear axles), disc brakes all around (inboard at the rear to reduce unsprung weight), and of course Jaguar`s legendary twin cam inline-6.
This particular car has been meticulously restored to original specification right down to the period correct Firestone Deluxe Champion whitewall tires. It is a very early car, featuring flat floors and welded bonnet louvers. The bonnet releases are internal however, suggesting that this is an unusual `interim` car.
Sold in 1998 to Jorge Hernandez by Mark Hyman of Hyman LTD, this car became the subject of an intensive restoration while in Hernandez`s ownership. During 1999 and 2001 the car was disassembled and refinished. Many new parts were sourced from XKs Unlimited, such as, window glass, interior leather, Mohair top, numerous latches, hoses, clamps, shrouds, shocks, springs, and gaskets.
As part of the restoration, the car saw an extremely high quality repaint. The under hood, engine bay frame rails, firewall, and inner trunk all shine with a fresh, glossy finish. The body is extremely straight and totally rust free. The panel match is excellent thorought, including the difficult to fit bonnet and trunk lid. The exterior is nearly flawless, with a few small paint imperfects around the trunk, and near the left headlight area- none bigger than a pencil eraser. All the exterior chrome is excellent. The car sits on newly refinished chrome wire wheels and is fitted with an outstanding tan mohair soft top over a restored frame.
The interior has also been restored. With the exception of some very minor wear on the driver`s seat bolster, the interior looks like new. The dash, carpet, door panels, and interior of the soft are all in fantastic. The gauges look to have been restored. As a Series I, this is fitted with the desirable aluminum dash and console trim. The console trim has some minor imperfections.
The engine compartment and trunk are both representative of the quality and thoroughness of the restoration. The engine compartment is extremely clean and correct, with beautifully polished aluminum valve covers and SU carburetors. All the painted components look to be freshly installed and are spotless. All shrouding, finishes, and even the glass washer fluid bottle are present. The trunk is very nice, with correct material upholstery.
The underside is representative of a fresh restoration and is nicely detailed.
Mechanically, the car is strong. While we don`t have documentation as to exactly when, we believe that the engine and transmission have both been rebuilt during the course of the car`s life. Many of the smaller mechanical items were freshened as part of the restoration in 1999-2001. The resulting car operates as it should. All the gauges work. The brakes and suspension have a tight and responsive feel. The engine sounds fantastic, and has excellent, linear power with no noticeable smoke. Much of the restoration work was done in-house for Hernandez. The car was sent to well known E-Type restorer David Ferguson in Campbell, California for finishing touches.
This is an extremely fine example for the purist. It is highly correct and representative of the very earliest E-Types produced, which had a number of features that did not survive the entire production life. The level of restoration is extremely good, making this car a rare opportunity to acquire a car that is essentially the same as it was in 1961. With the car comes an owner`s manual, wiring diagram, and records to support all the work mentioned above. Currently the car shows just 3,336 miles, probably reflecting the distance covered after the restoration.
The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.
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Fantasy Junction • 510-653-7555 • 1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608