Lot 019: 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-five 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 3.8 litre version of the legendary DOHC XK straight-six mated to a four-speed Moss gearbox, this combination soon gave way to a torquier 4.2 litre 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 white with red leather upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "good" condition with regard to its engine, four-speed manual gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim, chassis, bodywork, paintwork and wheels / tyres. Reportedly supplied new to California, 'BHS 110F' spent some twenty years in the Sunshine State before being repatriated to the UK and converted to right hand drive. Said to have been "repainted from a rust-free body that had some micro-blisters on it", the Jaguar is further understood to have had its clutch replaced some twenty-five miles ago as part of a gearbox service. Praised by the seller as "a really exceptional driving Series 2 that has no body rattles" and which "holds correct oil pressure", 'BHS 110F' is believed but not warranted to have covered some 92,000 miles from new. Sporting "a chrome luggage rack, mohair hood / hood bag and full complement of working instruments", this stunning E-type is offered for sale with "full history from 1989" and MOT certificate valid until March 2008.