“One of the most exciting cars ever produced.” “Awe-inspiring acceleration.” “Superb handling.” “The healthy tune of its engine is a sound to please the sportive ear.” With these praises, the automotive press spoke of its approval of the Jaguar XKE. Jaguar had a habit of shocking the automotive world. Sometimes the influence of its cars reached beyond the showrooms and auto shows to effect culture itself; not even Sir William Lyons, the founder of Jaguar, could have foreseen the consequence of the Jaguar E-Type.

The prospective buyer was encouraged to inspect each sweep, each curve and every fluid design line of the Jaguar and you would bear witness to the Jaguar elegance. This grace of styling was engineered from within the heart of the automobile itself. Jaguar’s E-Type debuted to universal applause at the March 1961 Geneva Motor Show. Its engine and transmission aside, the E-Type was all new. It combined a multi-tube front chassis with a monocoque center section. Front suspension was similar to the XK 150’s wishbones and torsion bars, but the rear was revolutionary. Comprising transverse lower links and fixed-length driveshafts, its wheels were suspended on coil spring-shock absorber units, two to a side. The differential was mounted to a hefty steel crossmember and hosted inboard disc brakes. Anti-roll bars were installed front and rear.

For many its greatest asset was that it really looked the part, and that nothing else looked like it. Whether “E-Type,” or “XKE” as it was sold in the United States, it made a statement about its owner and all who rode in it. By the late 1960s, the onslaught of U.S. 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. Heralded by many as the most beautiful production car of all time, the E-Type remains an automotive icon of design, engineering and speed.

According to its accompanying Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust Certificate, this Jaguar was manufactured on December 18, 1963 and delivered to Jaguar Cars New York. It was sold to Fleischman Car Leasing on January 8, 1964. The next owner of record was Francis Koo of Troy, New York, who then sold the car to Peter Wrisley of New Hampshire in 1972. Thirteen years later, in 1985, ownership passed over to Mr. Wrisleys uncle, Donald Hatch. However it was purchased back by Wrisley in 1992 and remained there until it was sold to the current owner in 2004.

The Jaguar received a bare metal respray in 1995; at the same point in time, an authentic re-trim of the interior in the correct original color hides was also executed. A new top with shot-filled canvas was installed to prevent high speed buffeting. The paint work continues to show well, though there are some minor hints of its age. In the early 2000s the suspension was completely torn down and crack tested. All bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, steering column u-joints, torsion bars, shocks and coils were all renewed, mostly with upgraded components. Adjustable coil over shocks and stiffer sway bars and mounts were all fitted at this time, and the rear axle u-joints were replaced along with the timing chain and engine seals. The 3.8-liter, 265-hp inline six-cylinder engine is paired to a five-speed manual transmission. The owner retains the original non-synchronized "Moss box" four-speed manual transmission.

Importantly this E-Type includes a rare original factory hardtop, arguably one of the best looking hardtops offered for a car of this era. When fitted to the car it is transformed into a striking GT coupe. Made of lightweight fiberglass, the hardtop is relatively easy to install and removed. The car is also accompanied by its books and tools; plus it has a more modern radio installed.

This is an expertly prepared and well-presented machine. It has been lovingly maintained and stored in a climate controlled facility for the last decade. It is offered in ready-to-use condition and comes from a very good, caring stewardship.