1962 Jaguar-XKE Series 1 3.8 OTS

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Description

Our team has recently completed a customized, performance-based restoration on this 1962 Jaguar E-Type Roadster, with the project now in its final stages as we complete post-restoration sorting and refinement. All major restorative work has been finished, and the Jaguar has reached an exciting point where final adjustments and road testing are underway to ensure everything performs as intended.

This Jaguar has been thoughtfully designed to enhance both performance and aesthetics while preserving the unmistakable character of the original E-Type. Visually, the car features an alloy dash and center console, and the removal of the front and rear bumpers for a cleaner, more aggressive presentation. The stance is further enhanced with Dayton D-Type-style wire wheels fitted with correct 3-eared knock-offs, wrapped in Vredestein 205/70R15 tires. A matching removable hard top completes the exterior package, giving the E-Type a distinctive and purposeful presence.

Performance and drivability have been significantly upgraded throughout the build. The engine features triple Weber carburetors, custom-fabricated headers by Classic Fabs, and a custom 2-inch exhaust system for improved performance and sound. Additional enhancements include a lightweight flywheel, gear reduction starter, aluminum radiator, electronic ignition, and upgraded alternator, all working together to provide a more responsive and reliable driving experience. Braking performance has been improved with a Wilwood big brake system, offering modern stopping power to match the increased performance.

Inside, the Roadster blends vintage styling with subtle modern convenience, highlighted by a completely new custom interior crafted by our Master Trimmer in a striking Blue and Gray color scheme. The cabin has been thoughtfully tailored to complement the overall build, offering a fresh yet period-appropriate presentation. A Retrosound digital stereo with Bluetooth connectivity has been seamlessly integrated, along with a discreet collapsible antenna that retracts cleanly into the body. Finishing details such as a Monza-style flip-up oil cap on the valve cover further emphasize the thoughtful, driver-focused nature of this build.

This 1962 Jaguar E-Type Roadster stands as a carefully executed balance of classic Jaguar design and well-chosen performance upgrades, resulting in a highly engaging and visually striking driver-oriented sports car that is ready to be driven and enjoyed today!

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 six-cylinder Jaguar XK6 engine from the XK 150 S. The early cars have leather-upholstered bucket seats, an aluminum-trimmed center instrument panel and console, and a Moss four-speed gearbox. The Series 1 can be recognized by glass-covered headlights, small "mouth" opening at the front, signal lights and tail-lights above bumpers and exhaust tips under the number plate in the rear. Jaguar's second E-Type concept was the E2A which, unlike the E1A, was constructed from a steel chassis with an aluminum body. This car was completed as a racing car as it was thought by Jaguar at the time it would provide a better testing ground. E2A used a 3-liter version of the XK engine with a Lucas fuel injection system. The "'Lightweight' E-Type" which was apparently intended as a follow-up to the D-Type. Jaguar planned to produce 18 units but ultimately only a dozen were reportedly built. Of those, two have been converted to Low-Drag form and two others are known to have been wrecked and deemed to be beyond repair, although one has now been rebuilt. These are exceedingly rare and sought after by collectors.