Skip to main content

LOT 218 N

1967 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 4.2-Litre Roadster Registration no. not UK registered Chassis no. 1E 15510

Estimate: £80,000 - £120,000
Lot 218N

1967 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 4.2-Litre Roadster
Registration no. not UK registered Chassis no. 1E 15510

1967 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 4.2-Litre Roadster
Registration no. not UK registered
Chassis no. 1E 15510

*Arguably the most desirable E-Type variant
*Imported from the USA via the Netherlands
*Left-hand drive
*Extensive recent refurbishment
*Registered in Guernsey

Footnotes

Introduced in 3.8-litre form in 1961, the Jaguar E-Type (XKE in the USA) caused a sensation when it appeared, with instantly classic lines and 150mph top speed. While, inevitably, the car's stupendous straight-line performance and gorgeous looks grabbed the headlines, there was a lot more to the E-Type beneath the skin.

The newcomer's design owed much to that of the racing D-Type. Indeed, the E-Type would be one of the last great sports cars developed directly from a successful competition ancestor. Just as in the D-Type, a monocoque tub formed the main body/chassis structure while a tubular spaceframe extended forwards to support the engine. The latter was the same 3.8-litre, triple-carburettor, 'S' unit first offered as an option on the preceding XK150. With a claimed 265 horsepower on tap, the E-Type's performance did not disappoint: firstly, because it weighed around 500lb less than the XK150 and secondly because aerodynamicist Malcolm Sayer used experience gained with the D-Type to create one of the most elegant and efficient shapes ever to grace a motor car.

Developed from that of the original XK120 sports car and refined in the racing D-Type, the double wishbone, independent front suspension was mounted on the forward sub-frame that supported the engine. At the rear the E-Type's suspension broke new ground for a large-capacity sports car, being independent at a time when most of its major rivals relied on the traditional live rear axle. Dunlop disc brakes were fitted to all four wheels; those at the rear being mounted inboard alongside the differential to reduce un-sprung weight.

Its engine aside, only in terms of its transmission did the E-Type represent no significant advance over the XK150, whose durable four-speed Moss gearbox it retained. The latter was replaced when the 4.2-litre engine was introduced on the Series 1 in October 1964, a more user-friendly all-synchromesh gearbox and superior Lockheed brake servo forming part of the improved specification together with the bigger, torquier engine. Apart from '4.2' badging, the car's external appearance was unchanged, but under the skin there were numerous detail improvements, chiefly to the electrical and cooling systems, and also to the seating arrangements. Top speed remained unchanged at around 150mph, the main performance gain resulting from the larger engine being improved flexibility.

Today, the E-Type's graceful lines live on in modern Jaguar sports cars, and there can be little doubt that William Lyons' sublime creation would feature in any knowledgeable enthusiast's 'Top Ten' of the world's most beautiful cars of all time.
Manufactured in 1967, this left-hand drive 'Series 1' roadster was imported from California to the Netherlands before returning to the UK. It has only recently (October 2017) returned from an extensive mechanical and electrical overhaul undertaken by Jaguar specialists WinSpeed Motorsport of Guildford (see bill for circa £7,000 on file). Finished in its original colour scheme and presented in wonderful condition, the car is offered with Guernsey registration papers.

Saleroom notices

The ash frame hoop to the base of the hood-base requires replacing. The Vendor will have this arranged for the buyer at his own cost post-sale.

Own a similar item?

Submit your item online for a free auction estimate.

How to sell

Looking for a similar item?

Our Cars specialists can help you find a similar item at an auction or via a private sale.

Find your local specialist

Specialist section

Auction Viewings

  • 5 December 2017, 16:00 - 19:30 GMT
  • 6 December 2017, 09:00 - 16:00 GMT

Lot symbols

NNOVA declaration
If purchased by a UK resident, this machine is subject to a NOVA declaration, whilst the responsibility of submitting the NOVA rests with the Buyer to do so, Bonhams will facilitate the process by engaging an agent (CARS) to undertake the NOVA on the Buyer's behalf. A fee of £350 + VAT to do so will be added to the Buyer's invoice.

Additional information