1961 Jaguar-XKE Series 1 3.8 OTS, Outside Bonnet Latch

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Description

(SOLD) This incredible, first-generation XKE outside bonnet latch roadster is currently under restoration to the highest standards of show-level correctness! It's not every day that a first generation E-Type with such a high degree of patina, originality, and sought-after features like flat floors and welded louvers comes along, but Classic Showcase has found such a car, and are very excited about restoring such a rare and unique piece of Jaguar history. This 1961 XKE roadster is number 331 in early E-type production history, and has a mere 10K original driving miles; Having benefited from being stored in a warehouse for 40 years, the E-Type has kept virtually all of it's originality intact, with the minor exception of a coat of red paint applied during the early course of its driving life. Under the bonnet, the roadster is mechanically all-original, with all mechanics, parts, and accessories left in a wonderfully preserved state. With an anticipated completion date of early 2014, Classic Showcase is currently performing a comprehensive restoration this rare XKE to the highest Show level possible. Included in the restoration process, the vehicle has been dissembled, and the interior has been removed and documented, the vehicle body has been worked, the metal finished, fitted, and leaded as needed, and all body parts and chrome will be fitted to the car; It has been primed, sealed, and had a base coat applied, and is in the process of receiving a clear coat, and will then be color sanded and buffed to a beautiful finish. All systems are being gone through and are being restored and replaced as necessary. The transmission, clutch, and hydraulic systems are in the process of being fully restored, and the car will receive all new rubber , grommets and seals. In addition, the britework will be completely re-plated to Show level quality as well. The car is in the process of receiving all new upholstery, and will be fitted in the correct materials by master upholsterers in our Upholstery Department. The roadster's parts and components are in the process of being restored in the proper colors and finishes as well, and we will be using NOS parts wherever possible. Extreme attention to detail is being given because of the importance of this early, highly original E-type. A DVD of the restoration process, along with a Heritage Certificate of authenticity will accompany the vehicle. This first generation XKE is truly an amazingly preserved time capsule, and is sure to cause a collector and enthusiast sensation at future Concours events upon it's completion; Truly for the discerning Jaguar collector demanding the best!

History

The Series 1 was introduced, initially for export only, in March 1961. The domestic market launch came four months later in July 1961. The cars at this time used the triple SU carbureted 3.8 liter 6-cylinder Jaguar XK6 engine from the XK150S. The first 300 cars built had flat floors and external hood (bonnet) latches. These cars are rare and more valuable. The outside bonnet latch is the most sought after of all the Series I E types. Only 500 external bonnet latch cars were made, of those, 385 were left-hand drive roadsters, 20 left hand drive coupes, 91 right hand drive roadsters, and 4 right-hand drive coupes. After that, the floors were dished to provide more leg room and the twin hood latches moved to inside the car. The 3.8 liter engine was increased to 4.2 liters in October 1964. This is a California car that is complete and has the features that so many collectors look for, which are: flat floor, welded louvers, outside bonnet latches, low number production car, and matching numbers.

Authenticity