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.

But for many, the E-Type’s greatest asset was that it looked the part and that nothing else looked like it. Whether labeled 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 afterward, the onslaught of safety and emissions regulations began having their way with the E-Type, resulting in the alteration of both its appearance and its performance. For these reasons, 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.

The car shown here, the 520th 4.2-Litre built, is quite an early example of the improved version of the iconic first series cars. According to its JDHT Certificate, it was built on 20 January 1965 and delivered that February to Mary Jane A. McMahon by Jaguar Cars of New York. According to the owner, it spent its life in California, being used as a second car before winding up in long-term storage; 30 years passed, at which time it was purchased to perform a comprehensive restoration to the highest standards. The consignor recounts that the rust-free bodywork was sandblasted and prepared for superb paintwork in the original hue of Opalescent Dark Green, while the interior was properly upholstered in correct Suede Green leather using proper materials sourced from England.

While the body was being prepared, the engine, gearbox, and differential received similar treatment. The owner recounts that the engine block was bored 20 thousandths to fit new pistons, the rotating assembly balanced, the head rebuilt, and the original differential fitted with new 3.23:1 differential, for longer legs in each gear and a more relaxed cruising speed. Further, the owner notes that the condition of the mechanical components backs up his belief that the 26,685 miles recorded at the time of cataloguing are original. A more high-efficiency radiator and more powerful fan were also installed.

Accompanied by a rare hardtop, tool kit, and jack, this numbers-matching E-Type is finished in the most elegant color combination after a fastidious restoration.