Fantasy Junction

Description

1968 Jaguar XKE 4.2 Litre Roadster
s/n 1E18260, Engine no. 7E18243-9
Willow Green with Green 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, however, the arrival of 1970s American safety legislation and the twelve cylinder engine made later cars less attractive and less sporting. The earlier productions cars, particularly those with 4.2 litre engine displacement sporting all-synchromesh transmissions and chrome bumpers, are favored among collectors and driving enthusiasts alike.

The XKE offered here is the rarest of the rare, a true \"survivor\" Roadster. Having enjoyed the custodianship of only one private owner from new, and with only 46,000 miles recorded, this complete, matching numbers Open Two Seater has led a pampered life. According to the seller, this sensational example has never suffered any body damage and as such is completely filler-free. It boasts majority original \"Willow Green\" paint—believed to be the rarest factory color, only available from 1967-1972-- which still shows its luster 44 years later, as does the original brightwork and factory wire wheels. The all-original dark green leather interior creates a striking color contrast in a fittingly British style. The carpets and top are, of course, also factory originals. As a Series 1.5 example, this car features the desirable small tail lights positioned above the rear bumpers identical to the earlier Series I cars.

Best described as having a charming patina and an exceedingly solid and straight body, this example will appeal to the looking for an undisturbed XKE for motoring enjoyment, or as a basis for restoration. The door, bonnet, and boot gaps are all excellent. The brightwork is straight and complete, and showing appropriate age. The interior is unquestionably original, and while the driver’s seat has started to deteriorate, the balance of the interior shows well and would not require attention to the preservation-minded custodian. The engine bay and underside are also largely undisturbed in appearance. New foot wells have recently been installed in a professional fashion consistent with the original build process, and the work performed is virtually unnoticeable.

The car starts easily and drives well making good power and oil pressure. The clutch, transmission, and brakes are all operating as designed. The gauges and other ancillary items appear to be working.

This amazing survivor comes with all original paperwork from new, including owner's manual, service guides, even the original factory warranty documentation—all appearing to be unopened and looking pristine in the original factory pouch. Several files comprising the complete ownership record were carefully kept by the car's original purchaser from his first day of ownership in 1968 and are also included. Literally every receipt, letter, brochure, and document has been carefully preserved and filed and these items were proudly presented to the Jaguar's present caretaker. Also present is the factory jack with bag, an original full cockpit tonneau cover and top boot, and the matching wire wheel spare.

With highly original, low-mileage 1960s era sports cars almost impossible to find in this condition today, this beautifully preserved, all-synchromesh, 4.2 litre, matching numbers Jaguar \"OTS\" represents a rare investment that also will provide true open-air driving excitement to its next keeper.

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