Fantasy Junction

Description

1970 Jaguar XKE Series II Roadster

Chassis Number – 1R12172
Exterior Color – Regency Red
Interior Color – Tan leather
Engine – 4.2 Liter DOHC in-line six-cylinder engine
Transmission – 4-Speed manual
Current Miles – 73,073 miles (TMU)

General History

Beautiful body lines, unrivaled performance, and racing lineage combined at the dawn of the 1960s to make the Jaguar XKE an immediate sensation. With its beautiful design and affordable price, the E-Type grew to iconic status where it continues to be adored by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. Independent front and rear suspension, disc brakes all around (inboard at the rear), and Jaguar’s legendary twin-cam inline six-cylinder engine were among the many performance features of the legendary XKE. Sales were brisk with continuous development growing in both American and European markets. In 1968, the Series II was launched which included open headlights, wraparound rear bumpers, larger taillights, and a larger grille with twin electric fans to aid in cooling.

Though initially developed to concurrently release with the original line up, the 2+2 model did not arrive in production until 1966. The added rear seating, while suitable for small passengers, created some packaging challenges to allow for the larger passenger compartment and taller roofline. While the proportions were unique to the 2+2 offering, by the late 60s the mechanical improvements across all models made for a very enjoyable car, capable of combining performance with stylish family transportation.

History of this Example

Like many Jaguars of this era, this example was driven recreationally and partially restored by prior owners. A generally sound example, this car benefited from residence for many years in southern Oregon. According to prior owner history, in the early 1980s, the car was purchased from an Ashland, OR repair shop on a tip from two strangers conversing while on a flight to Portland. Upon arriving at the repair shop, the new owner cured the outstanding bill and purchased the car. The car and several boxes arrived at the new owner’s home where it was gradually rebuilt as a long-term hobby project enjoyed by a local Oregon couple. Work performed on the car was done by a host of specialized vendors including paint applied most likely in the late 1980s along with various mechanical and cosmetic details as needed. Driving was limited to local events until the owners parked the car indoors and stored it with regular operation until 2010. The car was reportedly not driven when it was purchased and mechanically recommissioned by the next owner.

Under more recent ownership, this Jaguar has been mechanically freshened and gently recommissioned with attention to mechanical features. The engine was cleaned, carburetor needle valve and gaskets replaced for both carburetors, new fuel hoses installed, a secondary fuel filter installed, ignition system rewired, and a fresh set of spark plugs installed along with a new oil pressure sender. A new brake master cylinder and booster were installed, a new clutch slave cylinder installed, and the heater control valve repaired. The brake fluid reservoirs were rewired, and a battery hold down bracket installed. During the recommission the fuel was drained, crankcase oil and filter changed, and the hydraulic system flushed. The electrical system was comprehensively reviewed, electrical contacts cleaned, switch functions checked, lighting replaced as needed, and other electrical features tested for operation.

For the interior, the instruments were reviewed, the speedometer repaired, the tachometer lubricated and adjusted, heater control lever and choke mechanism replaced, the instrument voltage regulator replaced, and turn signal/hazard wiring repaired. The carpet was replaced, the seats were removed for seat track cleaning, and adjusted for smooth function. The convertible top mechanism was also serviced to ensure smooth operation.

Current Condition

Today this Jaguar presents as an attractive and honest example which benefits from older restoration work performed several years ago. Although the restoration work has aged the car still presents as a visually pleasant example. The paint is glossy and nicely done, though there are areas of light surface bubbling on the driver’s front fender, minor road chips, trunk lid chips, and light swirling in some areas of the finish. The front of the car benefits from the thinner profile chrome bumper and much of the chrome is in good condition despite minor cosmetic flaws, though very much in keeping with the overall driver-level presentation. The tan canvas top fits properly to the windshield and remains in nice visual condition, appearing to have had only minimal use. The chrome wire wheels are in excellent condition and correct for this series, shod with a set of Vredestein 205/70 SR15 radial tires. The lights and glass are in very good condition as well with nice presentation, again in keeping with the overall quality driver-level condition.

The interior is in excellent shape considering the older restoration. The leather seats retain clean surfaces and soft feel. The console and dashboard upholstery are very nice, and the carpet is clean and quite nice, having been more recently replaced. The steering wheel has the correct appearance and nicely finished aluminum spokes with a handsome center emblem. A late model Sony AM/FM cassette radio is installed. The instruments are in excellent visual condition although the tachometer and oil pressure gauge are currently not functional. The switches and controls are in very nice shape as well, once again contributing to the look and feel of a driver level sports car. Although the convertible top has not been used much and the exterior is in generally good condition, the inside top bow liner fabric seams have come unglued.

The engine compartment is generally clean and nicely detailed. The engine itself is quite tidy and appears to be visually consistent with original specifications. The suspension A-arms show some surface age and the painted engine areas also have aged over time, but here too in keeping with the overall presentation. The trunk has been properly finished with matching tan material, housing a full-size wire wheel. The undercarriage reveals a clean and tidy car that has seen road use, jack point repairs, and overspray, but still maintains a very presentable level of finish, including a few painted and raw metal surfaces, cosmetically touched up in various places.

One of the added benefits of the later Series II cars is the improved driver ergonomics which accommodates larger drivers and contributes greatly to the driving experience. The joys of open two-seater roadster configuration are further enhanced with the E-Type long hood and short deck. Seating position is very well balanced and driver ergonomics well suited to touring with comfort and luggage space that encourages weekend getaways. General operational features are consistent with the presentation including shifting and engine power, braking, and steering which function consistent with cars of this age.

This is an excellent opportunity to acquire an honest, driver-level E-Type Roadster ready to enjoy, refine over time, and appreciate as one of the best-looking sports cars ever created. Series II examples represent outstanding value compared to Series I roadsters. For anyone seeking a Series II E-Type, this example represents the right balance of beauty and usability, readily prepared for your ongoing motoring enjoyment.

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