Fantasy Junction

Description

1970 Jaguar E-Type Series II Roadster
s/n P1R13512, engine no. 7R12443
Regency Red with Black 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 the twelve cylinder engine changed the cars’ character irreversibly. The Series II cars featured a host of changes to modernize the car, including larger lights and many changes introduced on the Series 1.5 cars including Stromberg carburetors and safer interiors. While lacking the purity of the early cars, they provide substantially the same experience and are dramatically less expensive, generally about half the price of a comparable Series I.

This particular XKE was purchased new in 1970 in Monterey California. In recent years, it has been maintained with no expense spared by its current owner with most services occurring at British Motor Cars of San Francisco. There is a substantial file of receipts, parts bills and service records for the car totaling roughly three pounds of paper. These records are extensive and detail work done to the car since 1995. The car has received careful service with records totaling over $90,000. The thoroughness of the care is evident, ranging from the adjustment of dashboard levers to a new clutch. Other major work included a new head and a lower engine rebuild at a cost of approximately $12,000, which occurred about 12,000 miles ago. The car is fitted with rare and desirable factory hard top.

The car’s striking red paintwork and matching hardtop remain in good condition and show well. The paintwork is generally free of scratches both on the bodywork and the top. The car was repainted to a high standard which appears to have included the removal of the engine seeing as the engine-bay and front frame-elements appear freshly painted. The paint presents strongly overall with a few small blemishes and the occasional chip. On the passenger’s side, there is also a small dent on the lower portion of the hood and a scratch just behind the front wheel. Overall, the chrome on the car is good with some spots of pitting but only minimal clouding or aging on the front bumper. Glass in the car is good overall and appears to be original with only a small stone chip at the base of the windshield on the left-had side and a wiper-mark across the center of the windshield. The overall cosmetic impression of the car is strong and these small blemishes are only evident upon close inspection.

The car’s black leather is still very soft and supple and is correct in appearance, including the perforation on the seat inserts. The dash top appears to have been replaced at some point and is excellent, as are the carpets. The balance of the interior appears to be original and is correctly presented and in very good shape. The switches and instruments are in very good condition as well. The car’s wooden wheel and shifter appear original and show some wear to the varnish. A later Alpine CD player has been installed.

The engine of the car is clean and shows well, showing much evidence of recent maintenance and restoration. The wiring is tidy and an aftermarket aluminum radiator has been installed to improve the everyday drivability and usability of the car. The original radiator is included with the car. The remainder of the engine compartment is tidy and quite clean for a driver level street car. The hood fits well.

Behind the wheel, this E-Type is a pleasure. The engine displays good oil pressure, with fifty pounds indicated at idle when warm. The cooling system maintains proper temperature thanks to the additional cooling capacity from the aluminum radiator. There are no chatters from the clutch or growls from the rear end and the car is generally smooth in operation. The transmission is in good order with smooth synchronizers and the correct amount of clutch free-play. The engine pulls strongly and smoothly to redline without misses. The brakes stop well and straight with no pulsation. Overall, the car drives nicely in keeping with its status as a clean and well-maintained 89,000 mile vehicle.

This E-Type is an excellent driver that makes a strong cosmetic impression and has been carefully and consistently maintained at great expense over the last two decades. Having been sold new in California and evidently spending most of its life here, the car is very straight and structurally sound and the overall impression provided by the car is of a an honest and high integrity car that has never needed to be restored, but has instead been properly looked after by its attentive custodians.

Included with the car are a number of spare and original parts along with a car cover. Spares include spare seals, extra wheel center caps, and a number of spare chrome elements from around the car. Also included are the car’s original convertible top and top cover, a full toneau cover, and the original radiator and radio. Along with these extras, the car’s extensive service records, parts receipts and shop manual are also included.

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