1970 Jaguar E-Type 4.2 Roadster

Registration No: WWU 223J
Chassis No: 1R13091
MOT: Exempt

• Current ownership since 1998
• Notably sound bodywork and mechanically well sorted
• Very nicely re-trimmed interior
• A thoroughly usable example

Triumphantly unveiled at the 1961 Geneva Motor Show, the Jaguar E-Type created a furore thanks to its supercar performance, stunning looks and modest price tag. Early racing success at the hands of Graham Hill and Roy Salvadori amongst others helped cement the newcomer's reputation. Built as a monocoque with an engine cradling front sub-frame, the E-type's combination of all-round independent suspension and disc brakes allied to rack-and-pinion steering resulted in excellent roadholding and handling capabilities. The indomitable straight-six XK twin-cam engine supplied abundant power. If the design had an Achilles' heel then it was the recalcitrant Moss gearbox. However, Jaguar was quick to correct this shortcoming with a four-speeder of its own design just part of a continual programme of E-Type development that saw the model metamorphose through three Series. Introduced in August 1968, the Series II cars were distinguishable by their revised bumper and light arrangements. Less noticeable was the increased size of the front air intake that in conjunction with dual cooling fans made the Series II better behaved in hot weather and heavy traffic. With its 4235cc engine developing a quoted 265bhp and 283lbft of torque, it was reputedly capable of nearly 150mph and 0-60mph in 7.5 seconds. Available in open two-seater, fixed-head two-seater and fixed-head 2+2-seater guises, the American market accounted for the vast majority of Series II production.

According to its accompanying Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust certificate, chassis 1R13091 was initially finished in Regency Red with Beige upholstery (the same combination it pleasingly sports today). Completed on 23^rd March 1970 and shipped to New York the following month, the two-seater had relocated to the Isle of Man via a lengthy sojourn in California by the late 1990s. Sent to appraise the Jaguar on behalf of his then employer who had a significant car collection, the vendor was so impressed with the lack of corrosion that he asked to buy it for himself. The E-Type’s sole UK registered keeper to date and used to working on all sorts of exotica, he methodically went through the engine, gearbox, back axle, steering, brakes and suspension. The older repaint was deemed presentable enough but the interior was very nicely re-trimmed and a new mohair hood installed. Uprated with UK specification triple SU carburettors and exhaling via a tubular exhaust manifold, the factory-fitted straight-six sounded smooth and powerful during our recent photography session. Covering a modest 6,000 miles over the past twenty-four years and riding on MWS wire wheels, recent work has seen the brake servo replaced, a new clutch slave kit installed and even a gear lever bush renewed. Retaining its original LHD configuration and thus ideally suited to Continental touring, ‘WWU 223J’ has much to recommend it. As sound underneath as it is on top, this tempting E-Type Roadster is offered for sale with V5C Registration Document, owner’s wallet / handbooks, assorted invoices and MOT certificates dating back to 1998 (the current certificate remaining valid until August 2023).

For more information, please contact:
Damian Jones
damian.jones@handh.co.uk
07855 493737