Lot 240: 1970 Jaguar E-Type 4.2-Litre Series 2 Coupé

“This is a car for all seasons, one that can give a huge amount of fun at test days or continue as a successful race proven contender in the new E-Type race series or HSCC championship.” - Jaguar World Magazine on ‘YLU 470H’, September 2003.
This E-Type 4.2-Litre Series 2 Coupé was acquired by former owner Roger Seymour in 1984, with the intention of creating an effective dual purpose road/race car. After 18 months in preparation, the car took to the track for the first time, at Snetterton, in 1986. Further development was undertaken in collaboration with Andrew Tart, then at Jaguar specialists Vicarage. Stronger XJ front suspension uprights were fitted enabling the use of ventilated discs and bigger calipers, while at the rear a bespoke, multi-link arrangement restrains movement under acceleration, cornering and braking. To obtain a power band broad enough for road use, a one-off camshaft was specially ground to suit. Elsewhere the engine remains remarkably standard, retaining SU carburettors and steel ’rods, while the reciprocating parts are lightened and balanced. Transmitted via a racing clutch, the maximum power output of 306bhp is allied to an amazing peak torque figure of 318lb/ft at 5,500rpm, with 260lb/ft available as low as 2,800 revs. The gearbox is a Jaguar four-speed fettled by ex-Browns Lane employee Alan George, driving a 3.31:1 rear axle. Following an accident at Cadwell Park, the body was rebuilt by CMC to incorporate extra stiffening.
In this more developed form the E-Type’s results began to improve, despite its retention of the correct interior, standard seating, steel bonnet and chrome bumpers. A total of 48 events were contested between 1986 and 2003, resulting in 43 finishes, an excellent reliability record. Always running near the front of the field, ‘YLU 470H’ won its class on virtually every outing, as detailed in the accompanying results summary. In addition, the extensive history file contains invoices totalling in excess of £15,000, expired MoTs dating back to May 2001, race pictures and photographs of the bodyshell rebuild. The vehicle is offered with service book, owner’s manual, MoT to March 2006, road fund licence to February 2006 and Swansea V5.