1966 Jaguar-XKE XKE Series 1 4.2 2+2

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Description

(SOLD) Classic Showcase performed the Show/Driver restoration to this original California black plate, matching numbers E-type. This was a great original example that had never been molested which made it an excellent candidate for a complete restoration. The craftsmanship is superb as well as the fit and finish. The 4.2 engine has been completely rebuilt to factory specifications, with new pistons, bearings, valves, guides, seals, timing chain, the head was completely rebuilt, rebuilt the carburetors, new oil pump, clutch, all new brake parts, drive shaft balanced, new shocks, all parts painted the proper finish, new suspension rubber, under carriage restored, gas tank restored and epoxy sealed, new fuel pump and fuel lines, all electrical components, gauges, knobs, switches and instruments rebuilt, or restored, stone guards, new Triplex windshield, new door glass, new drip panels, rear end completely rebuilt as well as the transmission. The body was rotisserie restored, stripped to bare metal, metal finished, fitted, painted base coat and clear coat, then color sanded and buffed to a superb finish. All new rubber seals, grommets, and gaskets were used. The trim and bright work has been replaced or replated, with an all new interior, headliner, carpet, panels, and dash by the quality craftsmen at Classic Showcase. This was a comprehensive restoration with much time spent on detail and quality. This E-Type would be a strong candidate for concourse showing and it is one of the finest examples for sale in the world today. A DVD movie of the restoration process comes with the car

History

In March of 1966, Jaguar introduced a 2+2 coupe with enough extra interior room for a pair of occasional seats in back. One Motor scribe immediately zeroed-in on the real significance of this development: "... It effectively turns the E-Type into a family grand tourer and will therefore extend Dad's youth for at least another seven years." As suggested by C/D, the 2+2 arrived on a longer wheelbase, up nine inches to 105 (three more than the old XK's). Created by stretching the sheet metal center of the monocoque, it allowed correspondingly longer doors for easier access. In an attempt to make the overall profile look right, both roof and windshield were raised two inches. Some people actually thought this an improvement. Some also felt that the longer, heavier 2+2 rode and even handled better than the two-seaters, and that its wider turning circle (up from 37 feet to about 42) was not much of a problem. The "family Jaguar" was still plenty fast, and it was still a Jaguar. Plus, the factory used the extra driveline length to incorporate an optional item that had been popular on the old XK 150: automatic transmission. The 2+2’s occasional rear seats necessitated considerable redesign of the rear bulk head area; it also had a larger luggage compartment. When the rear seat in not in use it can be folded to increase the luggage compartment.

Authenticity