Lot 439: 1969 Jaguar E-Type 4.2 litre Roadster

Introduced in 3.8 litre form in 1961, the Jaguar ‘E’ Type, with its instantly classic lines and 140mph top speed, caused an immediate sensation. It was clearly race bred, the styling borrowing much from the Le Mans winning ‘D’ Type and of course the well tried and tested XK engine was used in the new car. In October 1964 the new 4.2 litre engined car was announced and, along with the bigger more torquey engine came a more user friendly gearbox, with synchromesh on first gear and also a superior Lockheed brake servo. The classic styling of the 3.8 was continued but enhancements to the electrical and cooling systems were incorporated and the passenger cockpit had enhanced seating arrangements. With the Series 2 ‘E’ Type of 1968 came modified headlights with fairings no longer in place, while enlarged side and rear lights were adopted to comply with U.S. safety legislation and a deeper front bumper section also differentiated the car from its predecessors.

This car was imported from the kinder climate of California in April 2004 and converted by the vendor from left-hand drive to right-hand drive specification. Restoration has included the fitting of new floor pans and other panels as required. The car has been repainted in British Racing Green livery and is furnished with black leather upholstery. It is to manual specification, fitted with chrome wire wheels and enjoys the benefit of twin Stromberg carburettors. It has recently been recommissioned for road use and is offered with an MoT certificate valid to 2008 and a current road fund licence. Following a period of restoration the car will benefit from careful running in and the usual shake-down adjustments following some time off the road. It is offered with a Swansea registration document for its period registration number.