When first unveiled at the 1961 Geneva Motor Show, even Enzo Ferrari was compelled to refer to the Jaguar XKE as one of the most beautiful cars ever designed. With its graceful lines and affordable price, the E-Type grew to legendary status, not just amongst British enthusiasts - earning world-wide praise for both performance and style. Offered with a potent twin-cam six-cylinder engine, independent front and rear suspension, disc brakes all around (inboard at the rear to reduce unsprung weight), and leather trimmed interiors, early sales were strong, encouraging ongoing development including the larger 4.2-liter engine and fully synchronized gearboxes by 1965. Though the XKE developed over the ensuing decade, Series 1 4.2-liter cars remain among the most desirable particularly for those who enjoy driving their cars.

This Series 1 XKE Coupe is supported by a Jaguar Heritage Trust Certificate confirming the chassis and engine number along with the original colors when delivered new. Assembled December 15, 1965, this XKE departed the factory January 7, 1966, finished in Opalescent Golden Sand, and trimmed with light tan interior. The car was delivered to Jaguar Cars, New York and subsequently sold to the first owner in North America. In more recent years, this XKE has benefitted from a high-quality restoration which thoughtfully covered every aspect of the car both cosmetically and mechanically.

The finished car has covered just 1,800 miles since the restoration was completed. In addition to the accuracy of the restoration, this Jaguar has been discretely updated with a modern AC system cleverly engineered into the lower forward portion of the engine compartment. Beyond the AC system, the car has been fitted with adjustable shocks to aid in dialing in the suspension, along with twin cooling fans (one automatic, one toggle switched), all in terms of making it a great touring example.. Since the restoration was completed, this XKE has been regularly serviced by Jaguar specialists including changing fluids, checking operational systems, and professional detailing to preserve the quality of restoration.

Offered in desirable colors and reflective of exceptional restoration by Images Autobody of Southern California, the current condition is excellent throughout. The paint finish is glossy, smooth, and the metal flake concentration is perfectly suited to the elegant body lines. Chrome trim, stainless front fender lines, windshield surround, front fender mounted Talbot bullet mirror, and the distinctive enclosed headlights are all in excellent condition. The body panels exhibit beautiful shut lines and tight closure for the doors, trunk, and forward hinged bonnet. Fitted with wire wheels, dual ear knockoffs, and modern Michelin tires, the stance is spot-on, slightly hunkered down, ready to pounce. Importantly, while many restorations are often trailered to shows and displayed as static objects of art, this XKE has been proven over 1,800 miles since the restoration was completed, making it a beautiful example that can be confidently driven on a Jaguar rally and present the next day or judging at a regional concours.

The interior is in excellent condition having been both thoughtfully and expertly retrimmed with correct leather, proper piping and padding, excellent quality carpet, and a beautifully finished dashboard. The bold instrumentation is clear and contrasting with excellent nomenclature and matching finishes, fronted by a warm wood rimmed steering wheel. The center console features two adjustable air vents which allow for cool, conditioned air to fill the cockpit – a welcomed feature especially for warmer climate driving. The rear storage area is properly trimmed as well with matching materials and houses a full-sized spare tire in the under-floor storage well. Fit and finish throughout the interior once again is among the finest one will find in any road-going XKE.

The engine compartment is beautifully composed in appearance and detail with the factory components prepared as originally intended including correct finishes applied to the triangular hammer-tone triple carburetor air box, gloss black breather canister, polished cam covers, and polished SU carburetors. The original engine block is in place and matches the twin-cam head stamping located at the forward portion of the cam-valley. Both the engine and head are stamped with the number ending in “9” indicating the more desirable higher compression series engine. Correct engine components and hardware complete the engine bay including an updated Optima battery and modern air conditioning. The “picture frame” forward chassis structure (integral to the front suspension) is stamped with the same chassis number shown on the aluminum factory chassis plate indicating matching numbers for both the engine and chassis. As one might expect, the undercarriage is in excellent condition, with correct finishes and components in keeping with the overall restoration quality of this XKE. The overall integrity of the body seams and joinery is very nice and further speaks to the originality of this XKE.

In addition to the beautiful cosmetic presentation, this XKE runs and drives very well. Carburetor and engine adjustments have been performed as needed in keeping with high standards achieved with the restoration. The engine provides ample power and torque and pulls strong in all gears. The car tracks very well benefitting from modern radial tires, delivering a smooth ride when casually motoring or at speed on the highway.

Jaguar E-Types continue to be sought after for their legendary beauty and performance. Series I cars with 4.2 engines uniquely offer the best combination of superb driving manners combined with the original pure and timelessly elegant body design – a delightful reminder of XKE excellence particularly so given the most recent changes offered in the newly revised Jaguar brand.

Combining great colors, a superb professional restoration, and thoughtfully upgraded with air conditioning, this stunning Jaguar XKE is sure to capture the heart of any motoring enthusiast seeking the very best in nostalgic sports car design and performance.

Please contact Jason at +1-206-355-7727 or Hans at +1-425-417-5877 for more information on this vehicle.