1970 Jaguar E-Type 4.2 2+2

Registration No: XBL 123H
Chassis No: 1R35481
MOT: Exempt

• 1 of just 1,040 RHD home-market examples
• Matching chassis and engine numbers with manual transmission
• Subject to a previous extensive restoration in c.2011
• Maintained in current ownership by CMC & Moorland Classics
• Top-end engine overhaul in 2020 by CMC
• Offered with Heritage certificate and a collection of invoices

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 road-holding and handling capabilities. Introduced in 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. The range expanded with a 2+2 derivative joining the Coupe and Roadster and evolved through steady stages until the final Series 3 V12s bowed out in 1975.

Ordered as a manual transmission 'two-plus-two Coupé in right-hand drive, chassis 1R35481 was built on the 7^th of August 1969, then distributed by Henlys in London, to Morris Garages of Newbury, Berkshire on 9th September 1969. 'XBL's' first UK keeper took possession on the 19^th January of 1970 and is one of just 1,040 right-hand drive home-market examples, possessing matching chassis and engine numbers and has seen much mechanical and cosmetic attention over the years. Explaining its current condition and longevity, in 2011, ‘XBL’ was the subject of an extensive professional restoration. The 2011-2012 restoration utilised East Bilney Coachworks and Martin Robey Jaguar for parts; there are some photographs and invoices on file. In current ownership since 2018, ‘XBL’ has been maintained by classic Jaguar specialists CMC (Classic Motor Cars of Bridgnorth) and Moorland Classics of Stoke on Trent.

No expense has been spared during its current ownership, ensuring regular close professional attention has been paid to 'XBL' being maintained in first-class roadworthy condition, and as such the E-Type has only benefitted in that time. 2019 saw an inspection and service by CMC, repairs to the rear differential axle, anti-roll bar bushes, replacement of rear discs and brake pads and a re-set of the steering. Further work by CMC, in July of 2020, saw a top-end overhaul, it involved the stripping of the cylinder head, carburettors and manifold and timing gear, the removal of cams and the valves. The cylinder head was pressure tested with the valves machine-cut with new liners and buckets fitted. This included the fitment of a new oil pump, and a timing chain repair. Steering bearings, track rod ends and parking brake pads were replaced in 2021. Other work rectified a shock absorber bolt rattle and an inoperative full beam. Moorland Classic Cars took over garage duties in May of 2022 and re-wired the ignition, adjusted and re-fitted the carburettors and replaced the fuel pump. In excess of £20,000 has been spent, to ensure that ‘XBL’ has been maintained in excellent condition up to the present day.

Offered with a collection of old invoices, including invoices for a top-end engine overhaul and photographs of the previous restoration, there is also a Jaguar Heritage division issue reproduction tool-kit and a battery isolator switch fitted. A Heritage Certificate is on file, along with an original Green logbook and the current V5C.

For more information, please contact:
James McWilliam
james.mcwilliam@handh.co.uk
07943 584760