Lot 255

Monterey 2013

1963 Jaguar E-Type Series I 3.8 Roadster

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$170,500 USD | Sold

United States | Monterey, California

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Chassis No.
850476
Engine No.
R1358-9
  • One of just 2,203 Roadsters produced for 1963
  • Former JCNA National three-time First Prize winner
  • Numbers-matching example

265 hp, 3,781 cc inline six-cylinder engine, four-speed manual transmission, independent front suspension with semi-trailing wishbones, torsion bars, telescopic shock absorbers, anti-roll bar, independent rear suspension with lower transverse tubular links, radius rods, twin coil springs, and telescopic shock absorbers, and four-wheel disc brakes. Wheelbase: 96 in.

Whether you referred to it as an E-Type or XKE, this Jaguar was most assuredly the sexiest car of the 1960s. It followed the Jaguar formula—sensational looks and sensational performance—which had been introduced so successfully with the XK120 in 1949 that it was restated with vigor in 1961. The youthful curves of the XK120 had matured with the XK150, while the E-Type made Jaguar young and exciting once again. Replacing the voluptuousness of the former car was the sleekness of the new one. What remained, however, was the undeniable sex appeal of the Jaguar formula.

The E-Type was preceded by the competition D-Type of the mid-1950s and its short-lived production version, the XKSS of 1957. Like the D-Type, the new car used monocoque construction: The front of the chassis featured a space-frame with steel tubes that supported the engine, the front suspension, and the hinged hood and fender assembly, which lifted to provide virtually unlimited engine access. The proven twin-cam inline six-cylinder engine of the former 150S, a four-wheel independent suspension, and disc brakes at each corner were featured, and 150 mph was also promised; all of this for a price of only $6,000!

During 1963, Jaguar produced only 2,023 open two-seat roadsters, including this Old English White over red leather beauty. A canvas black top and black boot with red piping complete the handsome ensemble. While having been acquired over 10 years ago by its current owner, it has recently been looked over mechanically, with a thorough rejuvenation of its brakes, carburetors, wheel cylinders, gas tank, and other mechanicals performed by Radical Motorsports, of Ramsey, New Jersey. According to the consigner, the no-expense-spared rotisserie restoration was completed over 10 years ago, but it continues to appear fresh, as if it was more recently completed. He adds that the interior appears as brand new, and the chrome and trim remain in excellent condition.

It is a matching-numbers example that features its original 3.8-liter inline six. It is complete with its original radio, and most recently, a set of reproduction wide whitewall tires have been fitted to the stunning chrome wire wheels. Attesting to the quality of the restoration, this Jaguar was on the cover of the December 1999 to January 2000 issue of British Car magazine, where it was featured in an article on E-Type Jaguars. In addition, it is a former JCNA National First Prize winner, scoring on three occasions 100, 99.99, and 99.99 points. Quite simply, this is the perfect example for the enthusiast or collector looking to purchase one of Jaguar’s sexiest creations.