Property of a deceased's estate; 17,500 miles from new; Left-hand drive
1968 Jaguar E-Type 4.2-Litre Series 2 Roadster
Registration no. J 1186 (Jersey)
Chassis no. 1E17202
Engine no. 7E6428-9

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 coupé forms, and in 1966 gained an additional 2+2 coupé variant on a 9" longer wheelbase. Intended to extend the E-Type's appeal beyond the traditional sports car-buying market, the new 'family orientated' 2+2 came with improved visibility thanks to an increased glass area, more headroom, improved heating and ventilation, additional luggage space and optional Borg-Warner automatic transmission.

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.

This Series 2 roadster was manufactured in left-hand drive configuration and sold new via Woodie Neil Imports of Keystone, Indianapolis, USA to one Richard Delbauve of Indianapolis. The accompanying original stamped service booklet records his ownership and maintenance up to April 1970 when the recorded mileage total was a mere 8,000. There is then a gap in the car's history until its purchase by Nigel Jagger from Egypt Farm, Trinity, Jersey in June 1996. The lady vendor's deceased husband purchased the E-Type in July 1998.

While in his ownership the car was maintained by Le Riche Automobiles in Jersey. There are bills on file totalling £4,800 for the period 1999 to 2006. Works carried out include machine polish; re-wiring; new tyres, fuel pump, brakes and ball joints; bleeding the clutch; and full servicing. Having covered only 17,500 miles from new, the car still presents very well, the paintwork showing a few minor marks but otherwise good. The interior is original and likewise presents well.

The car was last in active use circa 2007 and should only require relatively gentle re-commissioning prior to returning to active use. It will be presented for MoT testing prior to sale and it is hoped that it will be running. The car is offered with Jersey registration document and its original handbook, service booklet, warranty card and supplementary information booklet.

Should the vehicle remain in the EU, local import taxes of 5% will be applied to the hammer price.