Introduced in 1961 at the Geneva Motor Show, the Jaguar E-Type’s striking presence dazzled crowds and upended the automotive world. The British car was handsomely designed by a team led by the imaginative Malcom Sayer with the blessing of Jaguar founder Sir William Lyons. The Series 1—arguably the most iconic and valuable of the E-Types—was available for export in March 1961.

The car was refined over the years, and in 1965 it received a robust triple-SU carbureted 4.2-liter six-cylinder engine yielding 265 horsepower and a top speed of 150 mph. This 4.2-liter engine offered the same horsepower as the earlier 3.8, but torque was increased for better control. Other changes included a full synchromesh gearbox and new brake booster.

This beautiful E-Type is fresh from a 2,500-hour restoration by a noted marque expert who aptly describes it as “as new an E-Type that can be put together today.” Simply put, everything down to the last nut and bolt has been touched during the restoration of this exceptional example.

The 4.2-liter engine, the matching-numbers engine and head per the accompanying Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust certificate, has been rebuilt using all-new parts, including re-sleeving of the cylinders and a dynamic balancing, assuring smooth, vibration-free operation. A new master cylinder, hoses, lines, and wheel slave cylinders are fitted, and the brake-system has been rebuilt to ensure safe, smooth stopping power. A new wiring harness has been installed, along with a complete update of the electric system. The numbers-matching gearbox has been rebuilt, including new synchros and layshaft.

Interestingly, this chassis was originally completed on Independence Day, 1966; at that time, it was clad in Pale Primrose Yellow over black. During its restoration, its monocoque shell was stripped to bare metal and finished in a stunning Opalescent Dark Blue by Deluxe Customs of Tempe, Arizona. An all-new beige leather interior has been fitted to the highest of standards; against the deep blue exterior paint it makes for striking combination indeed.

Further, all chrome has been re-plated professionally to echo the mirror finish of the exterior paint. Even new glass has been installed. The chrome wire wheels have been upgraded from 5.5-inch to 6-inch widths in order to accommodate 205-series Michelin blackwall tires, improving both ride and handling. In addition, a 3:07 rear-end gear has been installed for better highway cruising and improved acceleration.

Presented as a “better-than-factory” restoration, this exquisite Series 1 E-Type is an alluring candidate for long-distance rallying and thorough enjoyment.