Sold 1971 Jaguar XKE 2146375960 Tweet

The Jaguar E-Type is one of a select group of automobiles to earn instant-icon status from the moment the public first laid eyes on it. The Citroen DS BMC Mini and Ford Mustang are among those few that caused as much of a sensation as the E-Type did at its public unveiling at the 1961 Geneva Motor Show. Like the XK-series before it the E-Type combined gorgeous looks race-bred technology and high performance in a relatively affordable mass-produced package. Starting with the earliest 3.8-liter flat floor models of 1961 the E-Type evolved gradually through its first six years on the market with the most significant change coming with the 4.2-liter engine in October 1964. Increasingly strict safety and emissions standards coming out of Jaguars biggest market the USA meant more substantial changes to the iconic original design would be necessary. Between mid-1967 and mid-1968 Jaguar gradually adopted several changes brought on by new regulations resulting in the interim Series 1.5 models. These cars had a redesigned front end with open headlamps new interior features and emissions-friendly Zenith Stromberg carburetors in place of SUs.It wasnt until later in the 1968 model year that the full-fledged Series II appeared. Still unmistakable as an E-Type the Series 2 now had modernized and more cohesive styling compared to the S 1.5. Most notable was a new full-width rear bumper with larger rectangular taillights integrated below. The open headlamps carried over and exterior lamps were enlarged to meet new requirements. Knock off wheels now had pedestrian-friendly non-ear spinners and the interior featured a host of improvements including new seats and a row of rocker switches in place of the toggles of the early cars. The suspension was mostly unchanged and the engine utilized the twin Zenith carburetors introduced previously. Improvements to the brakes and cooling and available factory air conditioning made the Series 2 the most practical and driver-friendly E-Type to date. Todays Jaguar aficionados have renewed enthusiasm for the Series 2 as it is one of the most user-friendly and best driving of the six-cylinder models while still retaining the beautiful proportions and style that made the E-Type such a legend.One of the finest Series II roadsters extant this very late productionXKEwas dispatched from Coventry on January 29 1971 at the very end of production before Jaguar switched over to the larger Series 3 cars. The car remained with its original owner until circa 1976 when it was purchased by a young enthusiast who would keep the car for over thirty years performing a full ground up nut and bolt restoration to concours standards completed on October 6 2006. The very next day it was loaded in a trailer and entered in the AACA Hershey show where it achieved its National First Place Junior award and returned to Hershey in 2007 and achieved its Senior award.Originally finished in light blue over dark blue leather the restorer wanted the car to stand out from the myriads of E Types out there and chose to restore the car in one of Jaguars most striking combinations of black with tan leather. The fit and finish are superb with excellent detailing chrome and brightwork. The interior is fabulous and the level of detail continues featuring a period Philips AM/FM/SW radio as well as correct air conditioning that blows cold. Jaguar improved the seat design for the Series 2 adding adjustable headrests and reclining backrests that better accommodate taller drivers and allow for superior long-distance comfort. The telescoping column carries over from the earlier cars as does the gorgeous three-spoke wood-rimmed steering wheel. The original instruments and switchgear of this car are in good condition and the carpets are excellent. Finishing off the superb cockpit is a black convertible top and this car also features a rare original hardtop which really sets the car off.Of course the car retains its original matching number engine per the Jaguar Heritage Trust certificate which was rebuilt during the restoration by the experts at Leydon Restorations in Pennsylvania. The highly detailed engine bay includes correct hardware and proper finishes on the air cleaner generator and cooling system. The front picture frame radiator support displays the original chassis number which often goes missing during rust or collision repairs. Chrome wire wheels are in similarly fine condition with correct easy clean hub centers and non-eared spinners and period appropriate red line radial tires. The car has been fastidiously maintained since the initial restoration and was recently tuned serviced and detailed and still presents as a very fresh restoration.This exceptional 1971 E-Type Roadster surely ranks among the finest examples of any E-Type ready to stand on the concours green and hold its own against any number of fine automobiles.Offers welcome and trades consideredFor additional details please view this listing directly on our website https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7746-1971-jaguar-xke/