Jaguar’s E-Type debuted to universal applause at the March 1961 Geneva Motor Show, but further development continued, and for the 1965 model, the gearbox was fully synchronized while the seat backs were made adjustable. A new brake booster was also adopted, and the engine was enlarged to 4.2 liters, resulting in greater torque, which made for better tractability in everyday driving. The car retained its pure form, with no external changes being 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 fourth gear without jerking or back-lashing,” all the while achieving up to 21 miles per gallon.

The Series 1 cars, built from 1961 to 1966, are most highly prized. The 1965 roadster on offer is a later 4.2-Litre model with the all-new synchromesh gearbox and more comfortable seats than on earlier examples, while retaining the covered headlights and thin side-lights and taillights that are considered most attractive and desirable. Built in October of 1965 and originally delivered by Jaguar Cars of New York, it was acquired by the current owner as a project, with all the important “matching-numbers” components and showing 36,000 miles, which the owner believes to be correct, as the engine had not been re-bored. The consignor subsequently completed a bare-metal restoration of the car to the very highest of standards, only recently completed. Its bodywork fits beautifully and boasts show-quality paint in the gorgeous factory color, Opalescent Dark Blue, as well as a properly finished interior in Cinnamon leather—a stunning combination.

The engine was rebuilt with new pistons, bearings, and timing chains, and was dynamically balanced to ensure smooth operation. The cylinder head was correctly machined with new valves and tappets, so it also runs quietly, as expected. The braking system is all new, including the master cylinder, servo, and calipers, with the front calipers having been updated to a four-piston configuration, for improved braking that meets modern standards. The rear suspension was rebuilt with the differential gears changed to a 3.21:1 ratio, using the torque from the engine to cruise easily at higher speeds. Similarly, the cooling system was improved with a high-volume water pump, alloy radiator, and 16-inch 3,000 cfm fan to avoid cooling problems.

Superbly restored to drive or show, and offered with a correct tool kit, driver’s manual, removable hardtop, JDHT Certificate, and original chassis plate, this is among the most striking and best-restored E-Types to have been offered in recent memory.