1969 Jaguar XKE XKE Series 2 4.2 FHC

Over time, experience and worldwide demand dictated many changes in the sublimely beautiful Jaguar E-Type. This culminated in 1968 with the introduction of the Series II, a substantial redesign that foreshadowed the final Series III V-12 that eventually debuted for 1971. Federal regulations in the U.S.A., Jaguar’s most important export market, drove some of the Series II changes. This included revised lighting and the shift to a pair of carburetors in place of the earlier triple-carb arrangement. The well-proven 4.2-liter inline six-cylinder was little changed, although a higher-capacity water pump helped the E-Type adapt better to warmer climates. Braking was improved as well, with larger Girling disc brakes utilizing three-piston calipers at the front and two-piston units at the rear. Inside, more comfortable reclining seats with adjustable headrests were now standard. The Series II revisions marked the maturation of the landmark E-Type and made a great car even better.