Lot 446: Jaguar E-Type 4.2-Litre Roadster

The first significant up-grade of Jaguar's sensational E-Type sports car occurred in October 1964 with the launch of the 4.2-litre version. Along with the bigger, torquier engine came a more user-friendly gearbox with synchromesh on first gear, and a superior Lockheed brake servo. Apart from '4.2' badging, the car's external appearance was unchanged, but under the skin there were numerous detail improvements. These mainly concerned the cooling and electrical systems, the latter gaining an alternator and adopting the industry standard negative ground, while the interior boasted a matt black dashboard and improved seating arrangements. The top speed of around 150mph remained unchanged, the main performance gain resulting from the larger engine being improved acceleration. Like its 3.8-litre forbear, the 4.2-litre E-Type was built in roadster and coup� forms, and in 1966 gained an additional 2+2 coup� variant on a 9 longer wheelbase that was intended to extend the E-Type's appeal beyond the traditional sports car-buying market. In 1968 all three versions of the E-Type underwent major revision to comply with US safety and emissions legislation, emerging in 'Series 2' guise minus the original's distinctive headlight covers. In addition, enlarged side and rear lights were adopted while a thickened front bumper centre section bridged a larger radiator intake. Interior changes included a collapsible steering column and rocker switches in place of the earlier toggles. From late 1967 the E-Type began to embody some of the aforementioned modifications, these interim cars coming to be known as the 'Series 1�' although there was never a fixed specification for this unofficial 'model'. Manufactured in May 1968 during this transitional period, this desirable right-hand drive 'Series 1�' Roadster appears to be in generally good condition and free from any major corrosion. A complete genuine Jaguar front bonnet assembly was fitted circa 2007 and the under bonnet area is tidy and original with no evidence of any damage or replacement of the original front subframe. All chrome including the wire wheels is good, as is the interior with the exception of a small mark on the driver's seat and edge of the driver's side carpet. On a short test-drive the engine appeared powerful and the transmission sound, though the exhaust was blowing slightly. Finished in black with original matching leather interior, 'FNC 317F' is offered with current road fund licence, MoT to April 2010 and Swansea V5, the latter recording only two former keepers.