Fantasy Junction

Description

1964 Jaguar E-Type
s/n 889879, engine block number R7709-9, cylinder head number RA5141-9
British Racing Green with Biscuit Interior

The E-Type was unveiled in March of 1961 at the Geneva Motor Show, following the famous 11th hour disorder (one of the cars was driven to the show from England with just hours to spare). The car was an immediate sensation: its specification was state of the art, its bodywork arrestingly gorgeous, and the price surprisingly affordable. It embodied William Lyons` values 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. Later cars, particularly in the United States, had safety and emissions equipment that negatively influenced both performance and aesthetics, so these Series I cars are by far the most desirable variants.

This particular example was owned by the same gentleman in Northern California from 1974 until 2013 and has been beautifully restored by Dave Ferguson of Images Auto Body, which specializes in classic Jaguars. During the restoration, the car was converted from a coupe to a roadster, although a physical inspection of the car reveals zero evidence whatsoever of the fact that the car was previously a coupe. A synchronized gearbox from a 4.2 liter E-Type was also fitted, as were the more comfortable seats from a later E-Type. The car is also desirably equipped with factory stone guards over the headlamps, and factory spot lamp and fog lamp, both of which are rare options. The car is also equipped with Wilwood front disc brakes and wider center lace wire wheels.

The car is in excellent cosmetic condition, with a freshly restored appearance throughout. The paintwork was done to high standards and the body is extremely straight, displaying great fit and gaps. The chrome is very good, with light surface scratches only. The lights and glass are excellent, and the wheels are beautiful, transforming the car’s stance. The car has an excellent tan canvas top and matching boot, as well as black canvas full tonneau cover with center zipper.

The interior was restored to equally high standards, with excellent biscuit leather and high quality wool carpets. The leather is in very nice condition with light mellowing but no significant wear. Correct type rubber Jaguar floor mats are in place. The center console and dashboard are in excellent restored condition, and the swtiches, instruments, and controls are excellent condition and throughout. The steering wheel appears as though it has never been restored and is excellent if this is the case. The car has been fitted with a modern radio that has a vintage appearance, but is equipped with an audio in port so that any device with a headphone jack is compatible with the car’s stereo.

The engine compartment is detailed to high end driver standards and generally correct in appearance, although the car has been converted to run an alternator, has a supplemental electric cooling fan, and also has a spin on oil filter conversion. The glass windscrren washer reservoir is in place and the motor is tidy and clean. The car is equipped with Koni shock absorbers. The head number is stamped RA5141-9, which matches the chassis plate, while the block number is stamped R7709-9. The trunk is correct in appearance, with tan upholstery, spare, and jack.
The car runs and drives superbly. The choke works properly and the engine starts easily and displays good oil pressure. It sounds great and is well tuned. The steering suspension is well-controlled but compliant, and the car has a solid and coherent feel, making among the better driving E-Types that Fantasy Junction has encountered in recent memory. The brakes are effective and the transmission shifts easily and with good syncromesh and the correct amount of play in the linkage.

This is an excellent opportunity to acquire a striking, high end driver level open E-Type. Thoughtfully upgraded to improve reliablity, safety, and functionality, this car is an ideal example for someone seeking to drive the car regularly. It has more comfortable seats, better brakes, a more user friendly gearbox, and meaningful improvements to the cooling and charging systems and the result is an absolute joy to use. The timeless color combination looks superb on the car and it reminds why the E-Type is widely considered to be among the most beautiful cars ever made. This example comes out of nearly four decades of California ownership and is complete with jack bag with jack, tool roll with tools, parts catalog, owner’s manual, top boot, and tonneau cover.

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