Description
Introduced in October 1968 the Series 2 version of the iconic E-type was subject to several design alterations from the previous model. Interior door handles were recessed, and the dash switches went from toggle to rocker types. Headlight covers removed with larger sidelight clusters front and rear and to allow for the option of air con whilst improving cooling air flow the bonnet mouth was increased. Bumpers proved most noticeable; the rear now comprised of a three-piece wraparound option that was positioned higher to accommodate a square number plate. All very logical considering demands of the huge export market, especially for the Roadster / convertible, where, of the 8627 built 91% were built as left-hand drive. Mechanically the exhaust tail pipes were splayed to navigate the number plate also Girling brake calipers became standard fit. Stateside (known as the XKE) the Manhattan ad-men raved about Jaguars 120mph performance with a 20mpg return at the pumps and with a dealer sticker price of $5634 ‘the second most beautiful thing about the XKE … was the price’.
Country Classic Cars are very happy to present this Series 2 E-Type, 4. 2 litre manual in left hand drive and finished in Signal Red; a commission sale on behalf of the current owner. A more detailed history file would be difficult to imagine, and this provides a fascinating route map in the life of this stunning Roadster that left Browns Lane 2nd December 1968. Shipped to Wiesbaden Germany on New Years Eve and into the showroom of successful Jaguar Sportscar driver and dealership owner Peter Lindner. First owner was American serviceman Dr Donald Kahn who would go on to pioneer revolutionary techniques in the world of cardiac surgery. Kahn completed his tour of duty and shipped the E-Type back home to Birmingham Alabama, where he would enjoy the car for almost three decades. During this time the car was maintained by Louis England, a Jaguar expert at the Auto Shop Inc, Avenue South Birmingham. He issued over a dozen invoices; the mileage shown on the 1988 repair bill was 49055 miles. Dr Kahn instructed a final service in May 1995, just prior to agreeing a sale with the mileage at that time noted at 51139. In the UK a Roger Oyston was on the hunt for an E Type Roadster and instructed his friend (Robert Williams) stateside to check the market. Correspondence between the pair resulted in a cashier’s cheque for $16500 being paid to Dr Kahn on 22nd March 1996, mileage stated at 51628. Overland haulage took the car to Florida where Customs Brokers Seariders loaded it onto the cargo ship ‘Tellus’ that sailed 30th December 1996 direct to Southampton docks. Roger Oyston was able to collect his Jaguar having cleared customs at the end of January 1997 and it was transported to his home in Essex where it would remain until Feb 2022. Early in this period a DVLA inspection was carried out with an initial MOT April 1997 showing 52912 miles. Dozens of invoices cover this period including a bare metal respray carried out in 1999 and sills with floorpans in 2018. MOTs confirm very limited use (often less than 100 miles per annum) from 54034 in 2006 to the current advisory free certificate at 54698 which runs until 24th July 2025. The current custodian instructed Country Classic Cars to go through the car mechanically over the past few months initially removing the engine and gearbox to replace a failed clutch bearing. A new clutch pack was installed, and the flywheel skimmed. Engine block was steam cleaned and repainted, upgraded rear main oil seal and new sump gasket. Replaced, crank spigot bush, engine mounts, gearbox bracket, fitted full water hose kit. Oil and filter, plugs, coolant replaced with brake and clutch fluids, strip and clean carbs, replaced hand brake switch.
At Country Classic Cars we find it’s best to present a ‘warts and all’ detailed write up of any classic we are requested to sell. This helps to avoid ‘buyer’s remorse’ especially for those purchasing from abroad or interested parties travelling distances to view. Paint and finish will certainly impress, this Roadster enjoys good panel gaps and excellent chrome, but very close inspection revealed a small chip to the top edge on one bonnet louvre plus a tiny blemish to the o/ s front bumper edge. The underside presents very nicely, no doubt aided by its years in the ‘deep south’ whilst the Interior trim is showing some age therefore those chasing concours trophies would likely consider new door cards and carpets. Chrome wire wheels and spinners are more recent with new tyres fitted at the same time and remain free from kerb damage. The folding roof has small tears on both sides above the door glass and although these could be repaired a new hood would certainly be our recommendation. We feel this Series 2 E-Type offers scope for any new owner to improve and enjoy with all the costly repairs completed. Visually, a thing of real beauty, priced to sell, low mileage and a fascinating history we highly recommend early viewings.
For additional information please message with your email address for detailed images or a short walk-round video; we will forward the file via ‘We Transfer’ a free to use and safe service or Whats Ap if you supply your mobile phone number. Country Classic Cars operate by appointment only as our cars are kept in secure storage although currently, we are happy to offer unhindered viewings and test drives.
