Turning the automotive industry on its head upon its introduction in 1961, Jaguar’s E-Type was nothing short of the most spectacular car the world had seen in the post-war era. As so often told, Enzo Ferrari declared the E-type “the most beautiful car in the world.” Jaguar proved yet again that it was one of the world’s top manufacturers of sports cars. What was perhaps more impressive was the E-Type’s performance. It boasted a 0–60 mph time of 6.3 seconds and a top speed of 150 mph.

This stunning E-Type is a highly desirable first-series roadster finished elegantly in its original color scheme of Opalescent Gunmetal Grey with a red leather interior and black top. One of the most sought-after and collectable E-Type variants is an early Series 1 flat-floor car with the welded-louver bonnet (as opposed to later cars with louvers stamped directly into the bonnet). This E-Type is understood to have been originally delivered in California and was reportedly in the ownership of the famous Alioto’s restaurant family, known for their iconic Fisherman’s Wharf seafood restaurant in San Francisco. Subsequently, it was owned by Mrs. Alvie Dodd of San Rafael, California, as evidenced by a copy of a 1979 title accompanying the car.

Recently, this E-Type was the recipient of a comprehensive restoration to show specifications. The exceptional body and paintwork were completed by David Ferguson of Images Auto Body in Campbell, California, a leading West Coast Jaguar specialist shop. The body was brought down to bare metal, while the chassis was media blasted. The remainder of the restoration was completed by Richard Jenkins, a noted Atlanta-area Jaguar specialist and longtime Jaguar master technician. The original engine, gearbox, and rear axle were overhauled and appear in “as-new” condition. The original crankshaft remains in the car at standard factory specifications. The braking system and wiring were completely refurbished, while period tires from Longstone in the UK were fitted. Interior trim is from BAS Heritage of Palm Springs, California. The original color scheme was retained and appears today as it did when it left Jaguar in December 1961. A tool kit, jack, and handbooks, as well as a Jaguar Heritage Trust certificate, accompany the car. As testament to the quality of the work performed, the restored E-Type received a medal at the 2019 Atlanta Concours d’Elegance.

Checking off all the boxes for collectability, authenticity, and quality, this early Series 1 E-Type roadster with early welded louvers and flat floors presents an exciting opportunity to acquire one of the very best examples of Jaguar’s most iconic sports car.