The 1961 Geneva Motor Show marked a landmark moment in automotive history, as Jaguar proved that it still had some of the best designers in the industry and could indeed improve upon the breathtaking XK120 and its successors with a completely new car. The E-Type instantly stole the hearts of everyone at the show, and it was no surprise to Jaguar’s dealers that they could hardly keep them in stock. Coupled with a new independent rear suspension, a top speed of 150 mph, and other improvements from lessons learned from the D-Type in racing, the E-Type was just as wonderful to drive as it was to look at.

A 4.2-liter powerplant, originally offered with Jaguar’s venerable 3.8-liter straight six, which was carried through from the XK150 S, was introduced in 1965. Even though the 4.2-liter engine offered the same amount of horsepower as the 3.8, torque was increased, allowing for better tractability in everyday driving. Other minor changes were also introduced at the same time, including furnishing the gearbox with full synchros, installing a new brake booster, and fitting adjustable seatbacks. The exterior remained unchanged, however. The updated E-Type was indeed the car Enzo Ferrari had called “the most beautiful car ever made.”

THE TRIPLE BLACK E-TYPE

The Series 1 4.2-Litre Roadster offered here is documented by its Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust Certificate as having been originally delivered to Excel Electric Supply, of California, finished in special-ordered Black with a matching interior, soft-top, and factory hardtop. It remained in the hands of its original owner until the late 1960s and was then acquired by its second owner as a “second car.” After he started a family, the car was put into storage, where it remained until his passing over 40 years later. A concours-quality restoration was then begun, to see the car returned to its original glamour.

Refinished in its original colors and with correct materials, the body can now only be described as exquisite, with doors that close beautifully along perfect panel gaps and excellent glass-smooth paintwork and brightwork. The engine was rebuilt and, as can be expected of an engine with 14,000 miles, retains its standard bores and crankshaft, as well as a perfect original cylinder head. It is smooth and quiet while delivering great torque. The gearbox was disassembled to replace dried-up seals and gaskets; the differential was rebuilt for the same reasons, with gearing changed to 3.31 to improve the driving experience. New wiring harnesses and associated items were installed, and the brake system incorporates new master and wheel cylinders. New wheels, shod in proper Dunlop sport tires, were also fitted.

Supplied with a correct tool kit, jack, and its JDHT Certificate, as well as a letter from the previous owner testifying to the mileage and the original chassis plate, this is an ideal Jaguar to join a lovely collection or display in a concours event. After all, original California E-Types, in “triple black” with a hardtop and only 14,000 miles, do not come around often, if ever again.