Auction Highlight: 1965 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 4.2 FHC

There are few cars in motoring history that can truly be said to have acquired quite such an iconic, if not legendary, status as Jaguar’s E-Type. Whether you’re an enthusiast or not, the name conjures the very spirit of classic British motoring; a fast, refined, and most notably achingly beautiful sports car.

Launched in 1961 at the Geneva Motor Show, the Jaguar E-Type took the motoring world by storm. With its combination of elegant styling, a powerful engine, and the marque’s characteristic refinement, it was a true trend-setter. During the course of its 15-year production run, it built a legacy of being one of the most desirable sports cars, and its reputation remains just as strong today, over 60 years since it was first unveiled.

Collecting Cars has now sold over 80 examples of this 1960s icon, spanning every Series and body style. However, even in such an impressive back catalogue there are some examples that certainly stand out.

This 1965 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 4.2 FHC was brought to market by the Collecting Cars team in November 2020, and was presented in exceptional condition. Purchased in April 1965, this Series 1 coupe was reportedly bought new from the supplying dealer by John William Leonard Lyttelton, the Viscount of Cobham.

In around 2010, this particular E-Type was subject to a detailed restoration, with a majority of the work being carried out by Jaguar specialist P&K Thornton in Nottinghamshire, and the renowned Classic Motor Cars in Shropshire. Alongside mechanical and cosmetic refurbishment, the car was also fitted with a few tasteful upgrades. These included stainless-steel tubular exhaust manifolds and pipes, larger callipers to improve braking, and a set of bespoke earlier-type seats fabricated in aluminium by Jaguar specialist Winspeed, which were both stronger and safer than their period counterparts.

Finished in an elegant shade of silver that complemented the svelte body lines, and boasting sumptuous blue leather upholstery with contrasting piping, and the quintessential wood-trimmed steering wheel; this Series 1 E-Type simply oozed sophistication.

Under the flowing bonnet sat a naturally aspirated 4.2-litre straight-six, fed by triple SU carburettors, driving the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission. This powertrain had been used as intended following its restoration, both for weekend drives and longer road trips across the continent to Cannes, proving to be a reliable and thoroughly enjoyable classic.

Presented in excellent condition throughout, with flush shut lines and impressive panel gaps, and accompanied by a good file of service history paperwork, as well as a Jaguar Heritage Certificate, this E-Type was more than ready for its new keeper to bring the best of 1960s style back to their favourite roads.

Offering proven reliability and usability, thanks no doubt to its high-quality restoration and recent maintenance by some of the best names in the business, this Jaguar E-Type Series 1 4.2 FHC represented a highly desirable proposition for collectors and keen drivers alike. It attracted thousands of views and 50 bids, with the new owner securing this impressive example for £82,500.