Lot 050: 1969 JAGUAR E-TYPE 4.2 ROADSTER

For many people, the E-Type remains the ultimate production Jaguar. A car whose heady blend of styling and performance were so exceptional at its 1961 Geneva Motor Show launch that they continue to cast a smooth, elliptical shadow over the marque's new sports cars some forty-six years on. Based around a monocoque chassis equipped with all-round independent suspension (torsion-bar front / coil-sprung rear), four-wheel disc brakes and rack-and-pinion steering, the model was progressively developed through three series. Initially powered by a 3.8litre version of the legendary DOHC XK straight-six mated to a four-speed Moss gearbox, this combination soon gave way to a torquier 4.2litre engine and transmission of Jaguar's own design. Introduced in 1969, the Series II boasted improved cooling courtesy of its enlarged front air intake and dual radiator fans. Visually distinguished by new bumper / light arrangements, it also proved more comfortable with reclining seats and recessed interior door handles. Finished in metallic blue with black leather upholstery, this particular example is variously described by the vendor as being in "good" (manual gearbox), "very good" (interior trim), "new" (wheels / tyres), "new / refurbished" (electrical equipment), "excellent" (engine, chassis, bodywork) or "mint" (paintwork) condition. Supplied new to the USA, 'PDV 898G' is said to have been "personally sourced / selected and re-imported to the UK in 1988-1989". Converted to right-hand drive as part of an extensive 'ground up' restoration carried out by Streber of Hemyock (Devon) during 1990-1991, work also saw the bodyshell stripped to bare metal before being fitted with a new subframe and resprayed. Rewired and treated to new Connolly leather upholstery, the Roadster also gained a new windscreen, mohair hood, replated / replaced brightwork and new chrome wire wheels. While mechanically, it benefited from attention to its engine (rebored, new pistons, camshafts, valves, clutch, bearings, oil pump), ancillaries (starter, alternator, distributor), gearbox (checked over), brake system (new copper pipes, reconditioned servo / master cylinder / callipers) and back axle (refurbished with new driveshaft UJs etc). Further benefiting from a stainless-steel exhaust, rejuvenated radiator, rebushed suspension and new shock absorbers, the Jaguar is understood to have covered just 3,700 miles since work was completed "at a cost of over £32,000". Considered by the seller to "require little attention to bring it up to concours condition", 'PDV 898G' runs on twin Stromberg carburettors (though, apparently a discounted Burlen triple SU set-up is available by separate negotiation). Worthy of close inspection, this gorgeous Jaguar is offered for sale with fibreglass hardtop, photographic restoration record and MOT certificate valid until December 2007.