Fantasy Junction

Description

1965 Jaguar E-Type Coupe
s/n 1E30258
Black with Black Leather 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. The cars were continuously developed, including the adaptation of the 4.2 liter engine and synchromesh transmission. However, the arrival of American safety legislation and the twelve cylinder engine made later cars less attractive and less sporting, making the series I 4.2 liter cars the pick of the bunch. Traditionally, open cars have been worth more than closed ones, but in recent years, the more dramatic styling, improved rigidity, and increased practicality of the coupe has meant that values of the closed cars have approximately doubled.

This car was purchased by husband of the current owner in 2004 in cosmetically restored condition, but with some mechanical needs. He spent several years on a thorough mechanical upgrade and rebuild, including completely rebuilt hot rod motor bored to 4.3 liters with larger valves, ported head, 10:1 compression ratio J&E pistons, Carillo rods, Iskenderian cams, electronic ignition, and tubular stainless steel headers. All rotating parts were balanced. The gearbox was rebuilt as necessary, and a full stainless steel exhaust fitted. The rear subframe was completely rebuilt, including the differential, half shafts and brakes, which were retrofitted with brakes from a Jaguar sedan to increase the swept area. Wildwood front brakes were fitted as well, along with enlarged front sway bar and solid steering rack mount. Most recently in July of 2013, the car was serviced with new ignition cap, rotor, fuel filter, spark plugs, adjusted timing, and tuned carburetors.

Cosmetically, the car is in very nice driver condition, with very good quality paint in excellent overall condition. There are few signs of wear or damage, although the paint is thicker than would be required for a show car. The panels are straight, the fit is good to very good, and appear to be free of corrosion. The chrome is in very good to excellent condition throughout, and all lights and glass are excellent other than light road wear on the front windscreen.

The interior is in excellent overall condition and is correctly presented overall. The upholstery is excellent throughout, as are the wool carpets. The dashboard top is in fine shape, and the instruments, switches, and controls are correct and in excellent order. The steering wheel has been restored and is excellent, and a modern stereo has been fitted. The generously proportioned luggage compartment makes the E-Type coupe a surprisingly practical car, and this example has been nicely restored in this area as well.

The engine compartment is clean and well-detailed, with the engine and ancillaries having been cosmetically restored during the rebuild. It is generally original in appearance, with triple SU carburetors with original induction system, although there are some upgrades such as the coated headers and MSD ignition.

The car is extremely quick and well-resolved. It is complete with handbook, fold out maintenance insert, and Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust Certificate. There is also a book containing photos of the mechanical work as it was carried out.

This is an excellent opportunity to acquire a unique E-Type coupe that will be perfectly suited to the enthusiast seeking to drive and enjoy the car. It is very attractive cosmetically, but not so nice to discourage driving it regularly, while the mechanical upgrades ensure that the car performs at a much higher level than it would have when new. Additionally, the modifications are well-executed, providing a coherent feel that is often missing from modified cars. The changes are nearly undetectable visually, preserving the stunning aesthetics of the E-Type, which is of course considered to be one of the most beautiful cars ever made. The car is complete with extensive records for the mechanical restoration, as well as a book made by the owner that documents the mechanical 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