1970 JAGUAR E-TYPE SERIES II 2+2 COUPE Registration Number:...

Estimate

£33,000 - £37,000

1970 JAGUAR E-TYPE SERIES II 2+2 COUPE

Registration Number: BHY 981H
Chassis Number: P1R44144BW
Recorded Mileage: c.88,000 miles

- Matching numbers car, with rare power steering from new
- Recently cosmetic refurbishment

The first significant upgrade of Jaguar’s sensational E-Type sports car took shape in October 1964 with the launch of the 4.2-litre version. Along with the bigger, torquier engine came a more user-friendly gearbox with synchromesh on first gear, and a superior Lockheed brake servo. Apart from ‘4.2’ badging, the car’s external appearance was unchanged, but under the skin there were numerous detail improvements. These mainly concerned the cooling and electrical systems, the latter gaining an alternator and adopting the industry standard negative ground, while the interior boasted a matt black dashboard and improved seating arrangements. The top speed of around 150mph remained unchanged, the main performance gain resulting from the larger engine being improved acceleration.

In 1968 all three versions of the E-Type underwent major revision to emerge in ‘Series 2’ guise minus the original’s distinctive headlight covers. In addition, enlarged side and rear lights were adopted while a thickened front bumper centre section bridged a larger radiator intake. Interior changes included a collapsible steering column and rocker switches in place of the earlier toggles. Cooling was much improved by the enlarged 'mouth' and twin electric fans, the brakes were uprated brakes and the Series II engine easily identified by new ribbed cam covers.

Rolling off the Browns Lane production line on 19th May 1970, this Series II 2+2 Coupe was originally distributed by British Leyland of New York to its first U.S. owner. Finished in Light Blue with a Dark Blue leather interior (a rare specification), the E-Type was optioned as a 2+2 with factory power steering and air conditioning.

A matching numbers example, in current ownership the E-Type has enjoyed a repaint of the body, also a complete retrim with materials supplied by leading specialists Aldridge trimming. The overall presentation is very positive, with nice paint, excellent trim, very clean chassis, floors and suspension.

With the benefits of additional legroom, power steering and an automatic gearbox, this attractive example offers much of the character of the classic E-Type with a more relaxing driving experience.