1965 Jaguar E-type 4.2 FHC

the model 

Widely regarded as one of the greatest sports cars of all time, the Jaguar E-Type debuted at the 1961 Geneva Motor Show. Its sleek low-slung body drew much attention and was famously declared “the most beautiful car in the world” by Enzo. 

The semi-monocoque chassis sported independent rear suspension, four-wheel disc brakes as standard and was powered by a 3.8L twin-cam straight-six engine mounted completely behind the front axle allowing near perfect 51:49 weight distribution. The engine produced 265bhp which, when married to its aerodynamic body, pushed the car to speeds up to 150mph making it the fastest production car in the world at the time. A larger 4.2L engine was fitted from 1965 improving torque and horsepower. 

The E-Type quickly established itself as an icon in the sporting world and has continued to be a halo car through the generations.

‍

the car

Built in July 1965, this Series 1 Coupe was delivered new by Jaguar Cars, New York, USA in August of the same year. It was purchased in Memphis, Tennessee and kept across the state border in Arkansas before being taken off the road in 1971 and stored for over 40 years when it was sold in 2017 as a single-family owned car. 

It was subsequently imported into the UK where a full restoration was completed in 2021 by JD Classics, renowned for their expertise in the Jaguar marque as well as the quality of their workshop. 

The car was restored to a ‘Sport GT’ specification blending many sporting enhancements with ergonomic and ease of use upgrades while retaining its matching numbers engine and gearbox. An upgraded alternator, larger aluminium radiator, high flow cooling fan, stainless steel exhaust, coil-over suspension and four pot brake callipers were fitted alongside the engine being tuned to improve driveability. 

The comfort upgrades include an air conditioning system, hidden inertia reel seatbelts, a powerful JVC sound system and front nose camera. All the switchgear for the modern additions is discreetly hidden in the central armrest. Dynomat was fitted to reduce road noise and the front end of the car was protected with PPF to ensure the car can be used as intended without harming the condition of the paintwork.