1968 Jaguar XKE Coupe
HIGHLIGHTS
Stunning 3-year Restoration in Beautiful Colors
Remarkable 40-Years of Current Ownership
Desirable 1.5 Series Retaining Early Design Elements
Powerful 4.2L Engine with Full Synchro Manual 4-Speed
SPECIFICATIONS
Chassis Number – 1E35176
Engine – 4.2L, In-Line Twin-Cam 6 Cylinder
Gearbox – 4 Speed Manual
Drivetrain - Front Engine, RWD
PRICING INFORMATION
Price - PENDING SALE
OVERVIEW
Beautiful body lines, unrivaled performance, and racing lineage combined at the dawn of the 1960s to make the Jaguar XKE an immediate sensation. With its beautiful design and affordable price, the E-Type grew to iconic status where it continues to be adored by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. Independent front and rear suspension, disc brakes all around (inboard at the rear), and Jaguar’s legendary twin-cam inline six-cylinder engine were among the many performance features of the legendary XKE. Sales were brisk with continuous development growing in both American and European markets.
In 1968, the Series I model transitioned into the Series II. These transitional cars retained many of the most desirable traits of the Series I while production was phased in for the Series II cars. Cars in the transition period are regarded by Jaguar experts as Series 1.5 models combining traits of both Series I and Series II models including retaining smaller wraparound rear bumpers, narrow profile tail lights, and a smaller grille, but featuring the larger 4.2 liter engine, twin electric fans to aid in cooling, open headlights, and fully synchromesh transmissions. This particular example is one of the rare later numbered Series 1.5 cars completed before the official Series II models began assembly.
The current owner purchased this Jaguar in 1985 and enjoyed occasional use with attendance at local events and Jaguar club gatherings. Approximately ten years ago, the current owner engaged a Jaguar restoration specialist to perform a comprehensive restoration covering all cosmetic and mechanical aspects with attention to authenticity, high quality finishes, and sensitive upgrades to improve use and longevity. The car was disassembled, all glass removed, and the body stripped to bare metal tending to any metal work as needed. One door skin was replaced, and small dents were repaired as well as minor metal work performed on the accident-free body. The front chassis was removed from the body, and it too was stripped to bare metal for refinishing. The body was refinished in correct light blue metallic, and all mechanical features were carefully refurbished following standards per the original specifications. The interior was trimmed in black leather, all rubber and weatherstripping was replaced, all lighting and trim refinished, and a fresh set of correctly sized Vredestein tires installed on chrome plated wire wheels. The completed car has since been modestly enjoyed by the current owner with ongoing services performed by Britsport, Seattle over the past decade.
Having been restored to a high level, stored indoors, regularly serviced, and professionally maintained by Jaguar experts, the current condition of this car is that of a very nice driver. The chrome and polished finishes are in excellent condition as is the glass and garnish molding.
The interior is also in excellent condition having been both thoughtfully and expertly redone with supple black leather and trim, excellent quality carpeting, and a beautifully finished dashboard. An aftermarket stereo and under dash Kenwood speakers have been added which improve the audio quality substantially over the original 1960s era sound. The dashboard, gauges, steering wheel, and surrounding features all contribute to a very satisfying presentation, now gently mellowed through thoughtful use.
With the bonnet tilted forward, the engine compartment is beautifully revealed with excellent visual appearance and detail as originally intended. Though some time has lapsed since the restoration was complete, the finishes remain quite nice, showing only signs of careful use. The twin cam head is finished with a gold cam valley, polished finned alloy cam covers finished in black, and dual Stromberg carburetors breathing through the correct triangular airbox and cylindrical air cleaner. The engine block carries the number corresponding to the car’s chassis tag, but the cylinder head does not, indicating it is likely a replacement item.
At the forward portion of the chassis, the crossmember “Picture Frame” bears the factory stamped chassis number which matches the chassis plate along just aft of the dual cooling fan arrangement updating this series. Notable features include dual exhaust with the correct split tail pipes, inboard rear disc brakes and independent rear suspension, front disc brakes with A-arm coil over suspension, and a cast alloy oil pan. All finishes and components viewed in the undercarriage appear to be of similar restoration quality.
In addition to the beautiful cosmetics, this XKE Coupe runs and drives well, starting easily on the choke and settling into a steady idle. The engine pulls strong in all gears, the car tracks well, and like all E-types, the ride is surprisingly modern. Steering is excellent, while cornering and braking are very much in keeping with the stability of the car overall.
Jaguar E-Type Coupes are highly prized for their beauty and performance prowess, but good examples have become increasingly challenging to find, particularly one that has been correctly restored and can be driven with confidence. Combining great colors, a professional restoration, and conscientious long-term ownership, this XKE is sure to offer the next owner years of engaging miles and participation in many enjoyable Jaguar club tours and events.
Please contact Jason at +1-206-355-7727 or Hans at +1-425-417-5877 for more information on this vehicle.
