1962 Jaguar XKE-Type Series 1 Roadster Pictures

Roadster
Chassis Num: 876963
Engine Num: R4728-9

This 1962 Jaguar XKE-Type Series 1 Roadster is a matching numbers example that was given a comprehensive and sympathetic restoration. It is finished in the correct color of Cotswold Blue, has a black leather interior, original chrome trim, glass, and other major fittings. It has traveled just 50 miles post restoration which was completed in July of 2008.

There were just 5,249 examples of the Series 1 3.8-liter roadster delivered to the US from 1961 - 1964. In 2008, this XKE-Type Series 1 Roadster was offered for sale at the Hilton Head Sports & Classic Car Auction presented by Worldwide Auctioneers. It had an estimated value of $90,000 - $110,000. As the gavel fell for the third and final time, bidding had failed to satisfy the reserve and the lot was left unsold.
The Jaguar E type, also known as the XK-E, brought style and performance together to create a mass-produced supercar. The road-going sports car was conceived in 1956 as a replacement for the D-type. In March of 1961 the E-Type was officially introduced to the world at the Geneva, Switzerland Motor show.

It's design was created by an aerodynamic engineer named Malcolm Sayer. The front engine, rear-wheel drive vehicle featured a moncoque body and a tubular front chassis. The six-cylinder double-cam engine had three SU carburetors and produced 265 horsepower. The suspension was independent with disc brakes on all four wheels. It brought together the best or aerodynamics, coupled with the latest technology and propelled by a potent engine. The vehicle was not only fast, it offered excellent performance and handling. Some of the most common complaints it received were the cabin being too cramped and it suffered from poor ventilation.

The E-Type was a popular vehicle. It was fast, performed well, and was competitively priced. Due to the United States safety and emission regulations, some of the horsepower was lost. The headlamp covers were also removed prior to the close of the 1960's.

A 4.2-liter engine and synchromesh gearbox was introduced in 1964. In 1966, the 2+2 coupe was introduced and featured a longer wheelbase. The Series II cars were not as quick as its predecessors. The Series III, however, was a different story. Powered by a V-12 engine they were once again able to propel the E-Type over 145 miles per hour.

Production for the E-Type ceased in 1975, after 72,520 examples being produced. It was replaced by the XJ-S; a vehicle that was larger, heavier, and not as visually appealing.