1966 Jaguar E-Type Series I Roadster

The Jaguar E-Type has become a total British automobile legend. It was manufactured between 1961 and 1975 and over 70,000 of them were produced worldwide. The success of the E-Type was due in no small part to its stunning looks, high performance and competitive pricing - the equivalent Ferrari of the day was costing three times more and delivering less horsepower!

With Jaguar's racing pedigree from the 1950s still fresh in the memory, it's no wonder the E-Type captured the hearts and minds of all who were at the launch, and if all E-Types aged as gracefully as the car offered here, then it's easy to understand why that affection continues today. Built in 1966, this Series I car is fitted with the 4.2-litre powerplant, often considered the best E-Type engine. For the 4.2, Jaguar introduced their own all-synchromesh gearbox along with improved seating and brakes. The new gearbox allowed faster changes and was well received in the motoring press at the time, offering an exhilarating driving experience for both pilot and passenger.

This elegant Series I 4.2 Roadster was sold new, in 1966, to the United States where it car spent a large number of years in the relatively dry state of Missouri. The vendor imported the car to the UK in 2013 having found it to be in highly original condition and was pleased to find with the Jaguar, a number of invoices for work and servicing whilst in the USA. Once imported to the UK, this E-Type was registered and given a fresh MoT certificate. The current owner has recently spent money getting the car into fine mechanical condition and states that it performs very well on the road.

The coachwork is described as "solid, with excellent panel gaps." There are one or two areas of light surface corrosion and small dents, and some buyers may well choose to repaint the car, however, for lovers of originality or those in need of a useable classic, this example can be driven and used as it is and comes with a current UK MoT certificate.

The interior is in presentable condition and is in keeping with the rest of the car but the hood does need replacing as it is very old. The engine is in running condition and buyers are welcome to hear the car during the auction preview. In addition, there is a Jaguar Heritage Certificate that confirms the engine is the original unit.

Supplied with the aforementioned history file, UK V5C registration document and looks that could kill, this E-Type is a chance to relive the 1960s, and own a truly iconic piece of design.