Fantasy Junction

Description

1966 Jaguar E-Type 4.2 Fixed Head Coupe
s/n 1E33469 engine no. 7E10243-9
Primrose with Black 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 particular example is a US specification car that was delivered new in the United Kingdom to an American officer in the Air Force who was stationed there. After less than a year, he brought the car back to Northern California, where the car has remained since then. The car, now with its second owner, remains substantially original and quite well-preserved. It has never been restored and is quite complete with tools and books, including maintenance book, owner’s manual, shop manual, and manual holder. There is also a copy of the original record of license issued in the United Kingdom. More recently, the car has had a complete cooling system service. Also of note is that the car is fitted with Talbot side mirrors, and a heated rear windscreen.

The car has been repainted in its original color many years ago to a standard that was consistent with the car’s contemporary value, but is not up the standards required by most of today’s discerning enthusiasts. There are surface blemishes and a few chips and scratches. The luster is good however, and the panels fit well. There is no corrosion in evidence either. The chrome varies in condition, being very good in some areas, to showing signs of aging in others. The wheels and window trims are quite nice, while the bumpers are showing age in the form of haze and light pitting. The glass and lamps are in good shape.

The interior is predominantly original, and it appears that only the radio and speakers, dash top and driver’s armrest have been renewed. It appears otherwise unrestored and well-preserved. The seats have creasing and some patina, but are still quite serviceable. The dashboard is in fine shape, and the instruments are excellent, as is the headliner. The carpets are in very good shape, and the various switches are in excellent condition. The rear compartment is similarly nice, though there are holes in the spare tire cover for speakers. The tool roll, jack, and spare wire wheel are also present with the car.

The engine compartment has never been restored, but would respond well to sympathetic detailing. It is substantially correct and unmolested, and the cooling system has been obviously renewed, a fact that the owner confirms. The car drives and works well, though the front suspension does display some wear and will likely be the first project the new owner will wish to undertake.

This is a fundamentally sound and desirable 4.2 liter Series I fixed head E-Type coupe. With just two owners and over forty years in California, this car has survived well, a fact confirmed by its completeness. It would make an ideal car to use on weekends and tinker with and enjoy as one goes along, or would make an extremely solid basis for a high caliber 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.

Inquire About This Car

Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608