OVERVIEW

The E-Type was unveiled in March of 1961 at the Geneva Motor Show surprising everyone with state-of-the-art mechanicals, stunning design, and a remarkably affordable price. Ultimately becoming a legendary part of automotive history and an integral part of the Jaguar brand, the E-type would continue for many years as a critical part of performance history. The race bred specifications included independent suspension all around, disc brakes all around (inboard at the rear to reduce unsprung weight), and Jaguar's legendary twin cam inline-6. Over the years, the E Type was continuously developed, however, with the arrival of 1970s American safety legislation and emissions requirements, the later cars only increased the desire for earlier E-types. The Series II contained much of the charm of the Series I without the heaviness of the later Series III cars. Series II models were upgraded primarily to meet several US specifications for import but also included improved cooling, a larger grille opening, open headlight buckets, and wrap around rear bumper.

Though much of the early history is not currently known, this car has been in the Pacific Northwest for many years including recent ownership since 2015 by a multiple car collector. As a refined numbers matching example delivering fine performance and reliable mechanicals, this car has seen regular services, fluid changes, proper tuning, and under current ownership has been one of the “go-to” cars that has never let the owner down.

Today this Jaguar presents as an attractive and honest example which benefits from a quality restoration performed some years ago. The paint is glossy and shows well, but upon closer examination there are areas showing signs of paint shrink. The chrome is nicely presented overall with very good reflections and good fit to the body and excellent rubber gasketing. The various trim, details, emblems, and other small features are also well done, indicative of a very thorough restoration. The black canvas top is sound and fits tautly to the windshield, appearing to have had only minimal use since installation. The chrome plated wire wheels are in nice condition, wearing Dunlop tires and perfectly nested under the elliptical wheel openings. The lights, lenses, and glass are in good condition, again in keeping with the higher-quality driver level condition of the car overall.

The interior is in solid condition with good finishes and cohesive presentation. The black leather seats have been properly reupholstered as part of the restoration and have settled comfortably with gentle use. The console and dashboard upholstery are very nice, as are the carpets, all of which were done with high quality materials, which appear to have been properly cared for since the restoration was completed. The steering wheel has the correct appearance and nicely finished aluminum spokes with a handsome Jaguar center emblem. The instruments, switches, and controls are in very nice condition as well with good color, excellent contrast, and clear glass, once again contributing to the look and feel of a driver level sports car.

The engine compartment is clean and orderly. The engine is original to the car including the correct twin-Stromberg carburetors and correct triangular air intake and filter. The engine itself is clean and nicely detailed, while the engine compartment and surrounding areas are also presentable. The suspension components show just mild evidence of road use and the important front picture frame displays the matching serial number. Overall, the engine and engine compartment are nicely finished and properly presented with a few improvements and upgrades as needed. The trunk has been properly finished with tan material, housing a full-sized wire wheel and factory specification tire jacking set. The undercarriage reveals a clean and tidy car that has seen road use but still maintains a very presentable level of detail suitable for even local showing or events.

One of the added benefits of the later Series II cars is the improved driver ergonomics and their ability to accommodate larger drivers, which contributes greatly to the driving experience. The engine starts easily, runs smoothly on idle and makes excellent power. The transmission shifts well up and down through all gears, with very nice brakes and suspension both on cornering and at highway speeds. The steering, brakes, and suspension all have a very good, harmonious feel, having benefited from proper care and service over the years.

This is an excellent opportunity to acquire a great driving, solid, and honest matching numbers E-Type Roadster in attractive colors. This Jaguar is an outstanding value compared to the Series I roadster, particularly given the enjoyable cosmetics and reliable drivetrain. For anyone seeking a fine driving car for spiriting roadways or open highways, this Series II E-Type roadster represents the right balance of excellence and usability, readily prepared for your ongoing motoring enjoyment.

Please contact Jason Harris at +1-206-355-7727 for more information on this 1969 Jaguar E-Type Roadster.