Jaguar E-Type Series 2 4.2-Litre Roadster 1970, Inglaterra

Jaguar E-Type Series 2 4.2-Litre Roadster 1970, Inglaterra
Fotografia

The 1961 Geneva Motor Show was buzzing following the announcement of Jaguar’s new E-Type. The fixed-head coupe didn’t even have time to cool off, arriving just 20 minutes before its debut as Jaguar PR man Bob Berry drove flat-out from Coventry to the Parc des Eaux-Vives. While the close call worried Jaguar’s founder, Sir William Lyons, the concern quickly faded with the enthusiastic reception by the motoring press. In fact, there were so many requests by the press that another car was needed. Famed Jaguar test driver Norman Dewis was tasked with piloting an additional E-Type to Geneva, this time an open-top example. Dewis completed the overnight drive without fail in an impressive 11 hours.

The E-Type was an instant hit. Borrowing from Jaguar’s Le Mans–winning D-Type, the E-Type employed knowledge gained from racing, including disc brakes, independent front and rear suspension, rack-and-pinion steering, and a monocoque body construction. The new Jaguar wasn’t just breathtakingly beautiful; the 265 bhp, 3.8-liter straight six-cylinder was capable of a sub-seven-second 0–60 mph and a top speed of 150 mph—very impressive figures for a road car at the time. Jaguar went into the show planning to build just 250 examples, but by the end of the show, over 500 pre-orders had been placed. Series 1 production began in March 1961, for export only, followed by a domestic launch in July. The E-Type was offered in fixed-head coupe and open two-seater (roadster) configurations, with a 2+2 version of the coupe debuting in 1966. Subtle upgrades were made in 1964, the highlight being an increased engine displacement of 4.2 liters.

Jaguar introduced the second series E-Type in 1968. Federal regulations in the United States, Jaguar’s most lucrative market, drove some of the changes, including revised lighting and the shift to a pair of Stromberg carburetors in place of the three SU units of earlier E-Types. Externally, the air intake was substantially increased in size, a change masked by larger, full-width bumpers that were matched at the rear to meet the U.S. low-speed impact requirements.

The well-proven 4.2-liter inline six-cylinder XK engine was little changed, although a higher-capacity water pump was fitted, taking advantage of the enlarged radiator air intake and better adapting the E-Type to warmer climes. The car was equipped with bigger Girling brakes with three-piston calipers at the front and two-piston calipers at the rear, while the interior now featured reclining seats as standard equipment. In short, the evolution of the E-Type meant that buyers of the Series 2 got a much better, more comfortable, and more reliable Jaguar—attributes that complemented its already well-established reputation for superior performance, handling, and looks. Series 2 production ran through 1971.

This Jaguar E-Type Series 2 4.2-Liter Roadster was built on 19 May 1970. A left-hand-drive example, it left the factory finished in Primrose Yellow with a black interior and convertible top, as it appears today. The Jaguar was purchased by Anthony L. Laucello of Long Island City, New York. Eager to get his car, Mr. Laucello flew to the United Kingdom, taking “tourist delivery” on 8 August. While in the UK, the car was registered under number plate VWK 81 H. It was thoroughly enjoyed by Mr. Laucello for a number of years, eventually passing in 1989 to James Page of Florida with 22,350 miles recorded on the odometer. In the early 1990s, Mr. Page commissioned noted Florida restoration firm The Creative Workshop to perform a frame-off restoration, bringing the car back to its factory-delivered condition. In 1995 the Jaguar earned its AACA Senior National Award, a testament to the high quality of restoration it received. In March 2003 the E-Type was purchased by Mr. and Mrs. Merrill of Illinois. They would add approximately 2,000 miles to the odometer.

Today the E-Type is presented in wonderful condition throughout, remaining very much as it left the factory years ago. Finished in Primrose Yellow accented by brilliant brightwork, the car rides on thin redline Michelin X radial tires mounted on knock-off wire wheels. While the exterior presentation of this car is stunning, it should be noted that the front windshield is exhibiting slight delamination along the top edge. The interior is trimmed in black leather with Smiths instrumentation adorning the dash, a period Phillips AM/FM transistor radio, a wood-rimmed steering wheel, bucket seats with headrests, and seat belts. The odometer displays less than 29,500 miles, which is believed to be original. A black convertible top and roll-up windows provide protection from inclement weather. When down, a black top boot conceals the top, helping the roadster retain a flowing appearance.

Retaining its original engine, the twin-cam 4.2-liter straight-six delivers excellent power with quick throttle response provided by dual Stromberg carburetors. The engine is backed by a four-speed manual gearbox which shifts smoothly through the gears. The undercarriage is remarkably tidy, evidence of the careful use this car has enjoyed. It should be noted that the front ball joint boots are torn—a typical wear item—but this does not prevent one from driving and enjoying the car.

The E-Type is accompanied by its original Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO), original Jaguar Export Sales form, Jaguar Heritage Trust certificate, a reproduction owner’s manual and wiring diagram book, knock-off hub tool and hammer, jack with bag, and a matching full spare. Furthermore, a photo album documenting the restoration is included.

The E-Type remains one of Jaguar’s most iconic road cars, a model that finds its home in some of the most discerning collections throughout the world. The second series 4.2-Liter E-Type is truly “a different breed of cat.”