2007-12-16 05:05:13 | XKE Data writes:

The record was updated:

2007-08-03 16:46:09 | Lofty writes:

Scheduled for sale at RM Auction, Monterey, CA. August 17, 2007

2008-11-11 13:19:27 | Jerry writes:

Sold by RM Auctions at the Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa in Phoenix, Arizona on January 18, 2008 as lot number 149 for $140,250 US. Estimate $125,000-$150,000 US.

www.rmauctions.com/CarDetails.cfm

RM Auctions description:
Specifications: 265bhp, 4,235 cc overhead valve twin cam inline six-cylinder engine, three SU carburetors, four-speed manual transmission, four-wheel independent suspension and four-wheel disc brakes. Wheelbase: 96"

William Lyons had a keen eye for style and distinguished taste, but he was not a trained engineer. While he had personally drafted the designs for all previous Jaguar models, recognizing the significance of the E-Type, he enlisted the expertise of Malcolm Sayer, a brilliant mathematician and aerodynamicist who had formal training as an engineer and a passion for automobiles. Under the direction of Lyons, Sayer shaped the body of the XKE and created what many consider the most beautiful automotive design ever.

Unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in 1961, the E-Type created a lasting impression. It possessed the three most important attributes a car enthusiast could desire: blistering performance, stunning beauty and a relatively affordable price tag. The E-Type was capable of 150mph, faster than most Ferraris at the time, yet it carried a price tag one third that of its competitors from the Italian marque. Sacrificing nothing to the Italians, the XKE had looks to die for, with sweeping lines and an aggressive yet undeniably sensual stance.

First outfitted with a 3.8-liter six-cylinder engine with dual overhead cams and three SU HD8 carburetors producing 265 horsepower, in 1964, the 3.8-liter unit was replaced with a 4.2- liter six-cylinder engine. While rated horsepower remained the same, the longer stroke 4.2-liter engine provided a meaningful increase in torque. It also acquired a much-needed fully synchronized gearbox.

Jaguar had taken what it learned on the track and applied it to the E-Type. The monocoque passenger compartment, tube-framed engine bay and tilting hood clearly came from the D-Type. The E-Type also had four-wheel Dunlop disc brakes, with the rear discs fitted next to the differential to reduce unsprung weight and, most importantly, it had a fully independent suspension at all four wheels.

Many consider the 1967 E-Type Series I to be the most refined automobile of the entire XKE production run; the example presented here is opalescent silver/blue with a dark blue top and matching blue interior. It is a matching numbers example with only one owner since new and just 40,000 original miles. Before the restoration, which adhered to its original factory specifications, it had been in covered storage for many years and was in time warp, remarkably well preserved condition.

The Jaguar specialists at Classic Showcase performed a comprehensive restoration on the E-Type with the aim of making it an outstanding driver in show quality cosmetic condition.

During the restoration process the engine was rebuilt, all major and minor systems were serviced, rebuilt or replaced, including the brake, fuel, exhaust and electrical systems. The body was striped to bare metal, fitted as needed, primed, sealed, painted, base coat clear coat, color sanded and buffed. The chrome was entirely replated and much of the trim was replaced with new. The interior was fitted with new carpets, panels, seats and a new dash with new instruments. The convertible top bows were restored and a new soft top and top boot were fitted. Accordingly, new wire wheels were also fitted with fresh tires.

The entire restoration process was documented with photographs, which are included in the sale, along with a Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust Certificate of Authentication.

With only 100 miles on its top quality restoration, and being a Series I roadster with covered headlights and the larger 4.2-liter engine, this is a very desirable E-Type that offers its next owner elegance, grace and open air motoring at its best.