1969 Jaguar XKE Series II Roadster
For consignment, a 1969 Jaguar XKE Series II roadster with a title verified 45,513 actual mile is now gracing our Hallowed Halls. This car was the recipient of a rotisserie nut and bolt restoration with added electric power steering, oversized wheels for better handling and an improved stance and all the proper tire tools. Presented in a stunning dark blue with red interior, this might be the best British export since George Washington.
Exterior
In the right light, (or wrong light), this car is dark enough to look black, but when illuminated, the two stage Indigo Blue paint is miles deep and undoubtedly, dark blue. The classic, long hood with its bulbous quarters is accented by the hump in the center, louvers, and oval intake. A Series I conversion has been performed on the Series II bonney and now covered headlights are at each corner, framed below by a wraparound bumper that is one with the body. The arc of the wheel wells accent the shape of this aircraft-like car by covering the top of the tires and showcasing the oversized 15-inch wire wheels with two bar knock offs that greatly improve the stance and handling of this British cat. The curved windscreen is born from the cowl and is slightly raked, providing a semi-enclosed space to pilot the Jag. Rectangular tail lights highlight the tail which also has a melded, wraparound bumper, two LED reverse lights, and twin straight exhaust pipes that split the distance under the plate bracket, while the sleek trunk gently descends from the black canvas Haartz top. Paint, metalwork, and the canvas top are all in fantastic condition and we could not find exterior imperfections.
Interior
A breathtaking interior begins with fine red Connolly leather on the door panels, flat and neat and augmented with metal trim pieces and an inset door actuator. Not to be outdone by the doors, the wide sill is also coated in red leather and rises to cover the inside door frame. Low back red leather bucket seats with linear stitching are spectacular and a striking contrast to the deep blue paint. But that's not where the leather ends! It covers the center armrest and the entire center console all the way into the footwells. A classic 3 spoke steering wheel with polished spokes and a wood rim, presents the driver with inviting textures. The clean dash and clear, black faced gauges with a speedometer that circles to 160 mph and a tachometer that redlines around 5,000 rpms. In the center, operational status gauges top a row of toggle switches with precision configuration, over a padded frame that surrounds an AM/FM radio MP3 capable retro radio. The black knobbed shifter is wrapped in a boot of soft, black leather, another sharp contrast to the red surfaces below it. Plush red Wilton carpet is like velvet below, topped with proper coco mats. In the boot, a tan vinyl cut to fit mat dresses up the flat deck of the interior and sidewalls.
Drivetrain
Under the reverse hinged hood we find a wonderfully detailed and gleaming 4.2 liter DOHC inline 6 cylinder motor, rated at 245 horsepower and fueled by three 2-barrel SU carburetors. A 4-speed manual is on board and as a proper British sports car, sends power to the rear wheels and 3.45 gears. Our consignor states upgrades includes the aluminum radiator and the Wilwood calipers on the 4 wheel disc brakes and electric power steering.
Undercarriage
Clean as a fox hunt bugle, the underside is show worthy beginning with the roll pan, Indigo blue, and extending all the way to the back wheels and contouring around them. Stainless steel resonators and mufflers then steal your eyes, shiny objects that are part of the dual exhaust system. All linkage, boots, knuckles and other wheel components are spotless. There are a few drops of oil on the pan and some seepage by the oil filter. Torsion bar suspension is supplied in the front and coil over in the back.
Drive-Ability
The legendary E-type is like sitting in a piece of rolling art and this one is a masterpiece. The six cylinder provides a healthy sound through the dual exhaust and the car rolls onto the test loop with smooth acceleration, perfect tracking, and great handling. It's not difficult to see why these well proportioned cars made great race cars, but you'll want to reserve this one for shows and luxury jaunts. As pretty as she is, we note some things not operating including the reverse lights, the low beams, the clock and the oil pressure gauge. The front suspension is making a bit of unusual noise as well. Other than those things, all operational items work as intended. While Classic Auto Mall represents that these functions were working at the time of our test drive, we cannot guarantee these functions will be working at the time of your purchase.
In the world of collector cars, Jaguar XKE's are a top tier consideration. It takes fine workmanship to restore one of these and judges tend to scrutinize them a bit more than your average show car, especially at the concours level. This example presents in a wonderful color combination with many correct elements that make it a collector grade E-type. Let's have a cup of tea and discuss your potential purchase.
Classic Auto Mall is home to more than 1,000 classic and collectible vehicles for sale via consignment in a climate controlled 336,000-square foot showroom (that's more than 8 acres!). The largest single location consignment dealer of classic and collectible vehicles in the country is located in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, just 1-hour west of Philadelphia off Exit 298 of the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. For more information visit www.classicautomall.com or call us at (888) 227-0914. Contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person. There is no guarantee of mileage. A $299 Dealer Administrative fee is