Spring 2023  Newsletter

1964 Jaguar XKE  FHC Client Restoration

Spring 2023 Progress Update

About the Jaguar and its restoration

Jaguar enthusiasts are known for their love of classic, sleek and stylish cars. A couple from California who are both passionate about Jaguars, recently commissioned Classic Showcase to perform a restoration to a 1964 Jaguar E-Type Fixed Head Coupe. They chose a color combination of a white exterior with a red interior, and decided to undertake the restoration to not bring the car back to its former glory, but more importantly create a family treasure they could enjoy for years to come. 

Spring 2023 Restoration  Update

The couple decided to go for a mostly stock restoration to the car, returning it to its original condition. However, they also wanted to add a few upgrades that would enhance the driving experience. One of the upgrades was converting the car's generator to an alternator, which provides improved charging and also better suited for night time driving. They chose to keep the car's orignial Blaupunkt stereo in dash, but had us install a "hidden" amplifier, speakers, and Bluetooth conectivity so they can utilize audio components on modern devices such as iphones and ipads, giving the XKE a modern touch while retaining its classic charm. Our team is always happy to oblige our client's unique requests in order to make thier vision a reality, and these choices are sure to enhance thier driving experience!

Body Work  Gallery

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Included in the restoration process: the vehicle was stripped to bare metal, placed on a rotisserie, metal finished, leaded, all body parts fitted to the car and chrome, prepared for primer, sealer, paint, base, clear, color sanded and buffed to a fabulous finish. All systems are being gone through and will be rebuilt or restored including: the fuel, electrical, cooling, and hydraulic systems. Mechanical components have been rebuilt back to factory specifications, including the engine, transmission, rear end and suspension, and the XKE's chrome was re-plated where needed. The E-Type is receiving a complete, new custom tailored and fit red interior in the correct materials by our master trimmer.  The XKE's restoration is moving along nicely, and is scheduled to be ready in time for the upcoming summer driving season!

While there is no doubt this example would be a fine addition to any show field when complete, the husband and wife collector team's primary goal of the restoration to the E-Type was to create something their family could simply enjoy and create new memories with. Their level of excitement is high, and they can't wait to see the Coupe when completed! Stay tuned to our Summer 2023 newsletter for finished photos of the XKE along with a recap of this exciting Jaguar client restoration!

Parts + Assembly  Gallery

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Upholstery & Assembly  Gallery

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