Jaguar’s E-Type debuted to universal applause at the March 1961 Geneva Motor Show. But despite its enormous popularity, the car had a number of shortcomings. The transmission, while sturdy, had an unsynchronized first gear, and the seatbacks were non-adjustable, fine for short trips but tiring on a long journey.

For 1965, these drawbacks were addressed, the gearbox was given full synchros, and the seatbacks were made adjustable. The engine was enlarged to 4.2 liters, resulting in greater torque, which made for better tractability in traffic situations.

The car retained its pure form and no external changes had been made, but it was now more comfortable and responsive on the road. Road & Track enthused that it was “possible to drive at 15 mph in 4th gear without jerking or back-lashing,” all the while achieving up to 21 mpg. But for many, its greatest asset was that it looked the part, and that nothing else looked like it. Whether “E-Type” or “XK-E,” as it was sold in the United States, it made a statement about its owner and all who rode in it.

Not long afterwards, the onslaught of safety and emission regulations began having their way with the E-Type, altering both its appearance and its performance. For this reason, it is the Series I cars built from 1961 to 1967 that are most highly prized.

One of the very late Series I cars, this Roadster has the characteristic covered headlamps and winged knock-off hubs of the early E-Types, plus the improved gearbox, the 4.2-liter engine, and the adjustable seatbacks of the 1965 upgrade. Prior to acquisition by the vendor, it was in single ownership in the Pacific Northwest for 25 years. Restored as needed over that time, it has been repainted in opalescent maroon and maintained and detailed with some care.

The black leather interior shows some use and wear, but it is entirely presentable. It has a black convertible top with tan lining and a new matching boot cover. The original cover is in the tan vinyl-lined luggage compartment, with its proper bag. The brightwork is generally very good. Panel fit is quite good, and the undercarriage is clean and showing only modest signs of use. The cockpit has its original wood steering wheel, and it is fitted with a Panasonic AM/FM cassette stereo.

The car comes with a Jaguar Heritage Certificate, showing dispatch from the works on August 24, 1966, when it was consigned to Jaguar Cars, New York, as well as a comprehensive file on the extensive service work executed in recent years. Titled as a 1967 model, it is in excellent driver presentation condition, and it is bound to make a good impression.

Titled as 1967.