Rare Series 1.25 Example. Original Black Plate California Car. Fresh Valve Job. Runs and Drives Extremely Well.
1967 Jaguar E-Type Series 1.25
s/n 1E15006 engine no. 7E12635-9
Black with Red Interior
In March 1961, Jaguar unveiled the E-Type at the Geneva Motor Show. Those fortunate enough to attend realized instantly that everything in the sports car world was about to change. Stunning design, unrivaled performance, and race-bred lineage all contributed to the E-Type rapidly became an immediate sensation. With its state of the art beauty and surprisingly affordable price, the E-Type grew to iconic status where it has remained for more than half a century. But it wasn’t beauty alone. Jaguar’s racing experience allowed them to transfer very progressive features to their new car, including independent front and rear suspension, disc brakes all around (inboard at the rear to reduce unsprung weight), and of course Jaguar’s legendary twin-cam inline-6. Sales were brisk and thus continuous development evolved with the addition of 4.2 liter engine and fully synchronized gearboxes for 1965. Later cars, particularly in the United States, had safety and emissions equipment that negatively influenced both performance and aesthetics, so these Series I 4.2 liter cars are widely considered to be among the most desirable.
This particular car is a late Series 1 car, often referred to as a Series 1.25 as the serial number is before the Series 1.5 cars, which had notable differences. These rare Series 1.25 cars feature headlights retaining the unchanged “covered lens” bucket contours, which will allow covered headlights to be fitted without body modifications. Further, this car retains the desirable triple SU carburetors (maintaining the original and robust 265hp) and Salisbury limited slip differential. Originally believed to have been delivered painted Golden Sand with red interior, the car appears to be largely unchanged from delivery other than the exterior color change.
The car was purchased recently out of an estate. While records of the history and ownership around the car were not presented with the estate sale, the overall condition of the car reveals a solid driver level vehicle with presentable cosmetics and very enjoyable interior finishes. The car is fitted with an original California black and yellow license plate, indicative of long-term California ownership. The annual tabs are stacked thick, likely dating back to the late 1960’s. This is further evidenced by what appears to be the original 38,000 miles as shown on the odometer and the generally tidy condition of the various components and integrity of the vehicle overall.
The overall exterior condition boasts a high gloss and uniform finish with minor flaws in the paint, light scratches, and various areas of minor blemishing. The body integrity is outstanding with no evidence of corrosion. The chrome trim is in good condition overall with light pitting in a few areas. Doors, hood, and trunk open and shut easily. Good fit and gapping are indicative of bodywork that appears to be original. The chrome wire wheels and desirable “eared” knock-offs are smoothly plated with no major flaws and all four matching tires are in very good condition.
The interior is in similarly presentable condition exhibiting what appears to be a moderate but thoughtful quality restoration on all surfaces including seats, carpets, and door panels. The leather is in good condition overall, with minor creasing and patina to the seating area. The dashboard is nicely presented with clear and crisp instruments, and switches all appear to be in good order. The carpets are in very good condition, as is the steering wheel and assorted chrome trim and handles. The soft top is in very good condition as well with no tears of frayed binding.
The engine compartment is generally correct in appearance and rather tidy, although not fully detailed. When lifting the hood, the original color (very likely factory paint) is retained on the firewall and front frame members. Most components are thoughtfully presented with originality in mind. The correct carburetors and air cleaner are in place, and the overall appearance of the engine compartment is of a properly cared for car that has been driven and enjoyed but not neglected. The trunk is correct in appearance with the proper type materials, tool roll, and jack. The undercarriage is as one might expect from a car that has been driven but not abused. Here again, there is no evidence of any corrosion or structural damage. The overall integrity of the body seams and joinery is very nice and further speaks to the evidence of originality and structural integrity of this E-Type
The car runs and drives extremely well, further supporting the originality of the miles shown. It starts easily with the choke working correctly when cold and settling in to a nice idle when warm. Recent servicing includes carburetor adjustments, valve adjustment, and some minor electrical corrections as needed. The engine makes good power and torque, and pulls quite nicely in all gears. Once at speed, the car is smooth and solid. Downshifting is smooth, steering excellent, and cornering very much in keeping with the stability of the car overall. The brakes are effective and the gearbox works smoothly with good synchromesh in all gears and solid clutch engagement.
This is an excellent opportunity to acquire a solid long-term California car that runs and drives very well. The restoration, while older, remains in presentable condition as a rewarding example to drive and enjoy as is, or later restore to a concours standard. Given the rapid increase in fully restored E-Type roadsters, this very complete and desirable late Series 1 model with original matching numbers engine and California registration history is an excellent opportunity for any enthusiast who enjoys driving their cars and sharing their interests at local clubs and gatherings.
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.
Fantasy Junction • 510-653-7555 • 1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608