1969 Jaguar E-Type Series II 2+2

When launched to an eager public in 1961, the new E-Type Jaguar was available in either Open Two Seater (OTS) or two seat Fixed Head Coupé (FHC) formats, the latter having a useful opening rear door giving access to the ample luggage compartment. By the mid-1960s, the high demand for the car prompted Jaguar to offer a third option, for the driver with a young family, in the form of a 2+2 coupé. By adding nine inches to the wheelbase and two inches in height, it was then possible to fit a rear seat capable of seating two adults in tolerable comfort. Of course, the rear seat was more suited to children or, as 'The Motor' put it at the time, the car could “extend Dad's youth for another seven years”. The longer wheelbase also had the added benefit of allowing Jaguar to mate a Borg-Warner automatic transmission to the 4.2-litre engine, thereby further widening the appeal of the E-type.

We have pleasure in offering this attractive 1970, left-hand drive, Series II 4.2 E-type FHC. Purchased by our vendor from a reputable California Classic dealer who assured him that the car had spent all its life in California but had been put in long term storage a few years ago, and on re-emerging had been fully recommissioned over there on 24/09/2015.($2,000). When the car arrived in the UK, it was put through a specialist service and receipts are attached listing the parts replaced over and above what was needed for a new MOT. The car was then registered with DVLA. All V5 and other documents including the MOT are present and correct.

This car is totally standard as per the original specification and having resided in the 'Sunshine State' the bodywork is in excellent condition, however, when it arrived in England it was evident that years of sunshine had faded the paint somewhat. It was entrusted to specialists Paintshop Pros who stripped it and finding all the panels in sound condition, carefully prepared the car and finished it in several coats of its original Old English White.

As well as looking good, the mechanical aspects have not been ignored and the vendor tells us that “Engine: All serviced. Drives perfectly and has good oil pressure. The car runs very well and operates as it should. Transmission & Clutch: Very good and has no problem with selecting gear or judder from the gearbox: Electrical Equipment: All in working order”.

The car comes with its Jaguar Heritage Certificate confirming matching numbers and no alteration, a copy of the original State of California Title, and the original service pouch containing the operating handbook, service book and manufacturers warranty booklet. The bulky A4 file also has over 50 service and maintenance receipts since 1975 all the way to an engine rebuild in 1998 (73,410 mls) and a note from the previous owner that the mileage since the engine rebuild is 10,562 before coming to the UK with service history to back this up. Surprisingly, it retains its original wheel jack, hammer and spanner.

This lovely Jaguar is kept cosy and dry as part of our vendor's private collection, but he has decided to bring it to market as, in his words “I am selling some of the collection as I do not need 6 E-Types.” which, of course, we can all understand.

We welcome any inspection of this very well presented Series II.