Lot 264 - 1965 12947 E-Type Series I Roadster *Reserve lowered*

We are proud to present, what is quite possibly, the best example of a Series I Jaguar E-Type Open Top Sports (OTS). According to the Jaguar Heritage Trust Certificate, the E-Type was manufactured on 9th September 1965 and dispatched to the USA on 17th September 1965 to be distributed by Jaguar Cars, New York. The first owner is recorded as a Lawrence Powers. Being manufactured in 1965, this Jaguar has the advantage over the earlier Series One cars in that it sports the modified floors (rather than the earlier flat floor) thus allowing more space for the occupants and in particular, taller people, a larger 4.2 litre engine and an all synchromesh gearbox.  The later Series One E-Types are considered a better drive and overall package by the Jaguar aficionados.

In the late 1990's, the Jaguar was discovered and purchased without the engine and gearbox; it subsequently underwent complete and extensive works to restore it to the 1965 specification. This included a completely rebuilt body shell, 4.2 litre engine and all synchromesh 4 speed gearbox.  A new owner took possession of the OTS in 2002 whereafter full detailing works were undertaken. The E-Type was entered into the Chicago, Jaguar Clubs of North America, Concours where it took first place. The 'Official Concours d'Elegance Score Sheet' for the event dated 9th August 2003 marked the car with a score of 99.3%; a supreme result in a hard contested event. Three major deductions recorded over the two events were a non-original radio, non-original hose clamps and no front licence plate.  Such was the determination of the owner, that those three items were all upgraded with original parts and further detailing work carried out to address the other minor deductions noted by the judges. 

Further works and improvements have also been carried out since. In 2012 the Jaguar was fitted with a new coolant header tank, hoses, fan belt and thermostat and in 2013, new wire wheels with stainless steel spokes, a stainless steel exhaust system, new clutch hydraulics and brake master system were added.  The car is driven on the road with ceramic coated exhaust manifolds (headers) fitted, as they deal with heat and moisture better than porcelain manifolds; however, a second set of show quality exhaust manifolds in black porcelain stored within a bespoke wooden box are included and were only fitted for display purposes.

We are advised that since the restoration, this example has been kept within a heated and dehumidified garage and has not been driven in any inclement weather. This certainly is apparent from viewing the undersides which are as exemplary as the topsides. The quality of the sundry items match the car perfectly; these include a full original tool kit, wheel spinner copper/hide hammer, jack and manual.  The detail finishes of each of these items are a sight to behold.

The Carmen red coachwork, sitting on wire wheels, is resplendent and complemented by the beautiful Biscuit Connolly leather with Hartz cloth. Imported into the United Kingdom in 2013, this Open Top Sport E-Type has the import duties paid, an MoT test certificate valid until 13th January 2015 and is fully UK registered.  This very special Jaguar really does have to be seen to be appreciated as in our opinion, the photographs can never do her the justice she deserves. With Series I open top E-Types fetching stratospheric prices, this exemplary example must represent excellent value given the estimate; surely an opportunity not to be missed for the serious collector.

*The reserve has been lowered on this car*