1962 JAGUAR E-TYPE SERIES 1 3.8 LITRE ROADSTER

- An early matching numbers Series 1 Roadster
- Fastidiously restored by marque experts in 2012
- Supplied with rare original factory hard-top roof
- Enhanced for modern day use with subtle & reversible upgrades
- Offered on behalf of only the third owner with less than 1,100 miles having been covered since the restoration

Dispatched from Jaguar’s Coventry factory in April 1962, this early Series 1 E-type, Chassis 850453 was UK registered ‘207 DYT’ and sold via Henlys Limited, London to its first owner, Mr Michael Walsh on 1st May 1962.

Remarkably, ‘207 DYT’ would remain in the ownership of the Walsh family until 2010, when having covered 78,000 miles, the E-type was purchased by marque expert James (Jim) Rothwell from Cornwall, UK.

Rothwell, a highly respected E-type aficionado, has personally restored and overseen some of the finest E-type restorations and after a lengthy search to source a highly original E-type for his latest restoration, embarked upon a concours standard restoration of ‘207 DYT’.

The following two years would see Rothwell carry out a bare metal, rotisserie style restoration which was completed regardless of time and expense. During this two-year period, the body was stripped and refinished in Opalescent Dark Green, whilst the interior was re-trimmed in Suede Green. All mechanical parts were overhauled including a complete rebuild of the original matching numbers engine by V.S.E Limited, to their ‘fast road specification’, while the suspension, brakes, steering, cooling system and electricals were thoroughly overhauled.

The decision was also taken to subtly enhance the E-type, including the installation of a 5-speed gearbox, supplied by E-type Fabs. This gearbox is interchangeable with the original numbered Moss gearbox, which was also rebuilt and accompanies the Jaguar. A larger starter motor was fitted, along with a purpose-built large bore tubular manifold and full stainless-steel exhaust system. The front brakes were also upgraded using Coopercraft 4 pot calipers and a new set of stainless-steel wire wheels were fitted.

The culmination is a world class restoration which has been thoroughly documented both with a photo library and a 10-page dossier of the works, which is available to interested parties upon request.

Having covered a mere 1,100 miles since the restoration was completed – enough to iron out those post restoration niggles – this beautiful Series 1 E-type is accompanied by it’s rare original factory hard-top roof (restored of course), new spare wheel, tool kit, service manual, parts catalogue, Jaguar Heritage Certificate and indoor car cover.

Photo Credit: Riiko-Andre Nuud, Riiko Photo