Fantasy Junction

Description

1967 Jaguar E-Type Series 1
s/n 1E33820 engine no. 7E11012-9
British Racing Green with Tan 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 so iconic. 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. Sales were brisk and the cars were continuously developed. The 1965 model year saw the introduction of a 4.2 liter engine, fully synchronized gearbox, and revised seats, creating what is widely regarded to be the pick of the bunch: the 4.2 liter Series I. Later cars were less pretty and lower performing as a result of new American legislations and the remarkable twelve cylinder engine of the Series III made the E-Type less sporting.

This handsome car is perfectly suited to someone seeking an honest and attractive matching-numbers example to drive and enjoy. Equipped with covered headlights and desirable triple SU carburetors (maintaining the original and robust 265hp) and Salisbury limited slip differential, this represents the ultimate E-Type road car specification. Information from previous owners indicates the car was purchased in 1989 from an estate in Colorado and then driven back to California where it has remained since. During late 1990s, the car was cosmetically restored including paint, interior, chrome, and exterior rubber. The Jag Doctor in Modesto, CA, performed maintenance and extensive mechanical work dating back to 2001, with detailed notations for all services performed. From 2008 to 2011, the car received considerable restorative mechanical work: the engine, transmission, and rear end were removed and all seals, gaskets and piston rings, new fuel pump, new head tank, and other components were replaced as needed. The clutch and slave cylinder were replaced, the brake calipers rebuilt, the front suspension was rebuilt, rear trailing arm bushings replaced, and the car was fitted with a larger aluminum radiator, new hoses, larger fan, and rebuilt alternator. In 2014 a fresh set of tires was installed. During this time, the car was also updated to run on premium fuel and the ignition system updated to improve reliability. Additional work performed in recent years included a new turn indicator switch, new muffler, a new heater blower motor, and regular maintenance as needed including tune up, carburetor service, and oil changes.

Today, the car makes a strong cosmetic impression. The driver level paint is attractive on the whole but close inspection reveals some surface imperfections, orange peel, and a few areas that indicate the car has been enjoyed on open roads. The body integrity is very good throughout, with good gaps, straight panels, and good fit and operation of the panels. The chrome trim is in good condition overall with nice finishes, showing only minor hazing in a few areas. The glass and lights are also in very good condition. 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 has a correct and nicely mellowed feel to it. The leather is in good condition overall, with minor creasing offering a pleasant patina. The dashboard is nicely presented with clear and crisp instruments, proper toggle switches, and interior trim, which all appear to be in good order. The carpets and floor mats are in very good condition, as is the steering wheel and assorted chrome trim and handles. In the rear storage compartment, the surfaces are nicely finished and correctly trimmed with proper raised luggage rails and correctly fastened/finished side panels and supporting hardware.

The engine compartment is correct in appearance and tidy, but not freshly restored. When lifting the hood, the engine and aluminum components reveal a well preserved car that can be enjoyed as is or taken to the next level. 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 fussed over or held captive by perfection. The updated aluminum radiator has been thoughtfully integrated into the original engine compartment. The undercarriage is as one might expect from a car that has been driven but not abused. Here again, there is no evidence of significant corrosion or structural damage, with all components revealing honest finishes. 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 well. It starts easily with the choke working correctly when cold and settling in to a nice idle when warm. The engine makes good power and torque, and pulls quite nicely in all gears. The exhaust and induction noise are evocative and a pleasure to listen to. Once at speed, the car is lithe but stable. Shifting is smooth, steering excellent, and cornering is confidence-inspiring. The brakes are effective and the gearbox works smoothly with good synchromesh in all gears and positive clutch engagement.

This is an excellent opportunity to acquire a solid long-term California car that runs and drives well. A matching numbers example, this car is presented in a lovely color combination and comes with a stack of service records dating back 17 years. The restoration, while older, has preserved the integrity of the car and remains attractive and presentable, making this an ideal example to drive and enjoy.

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