Presented by RM Sotheby’s.
Offered Without Reserve From The Tenebaum Collection
The breathtaking Jaguar E-Type, lauded worldwide for its style and performance immediately upon its debut in 1961, evolved continuously across its hugely successful 14-year run. While the basic concept endured until production ceased in 1975, the E-Type is broken into three distinct Series, with smaller changes made on a running basis. Series 2 examples, including this 1969 4.2-Litre Roadster, were built from 1968–1971. These cars strike a desirable balance between the earlier Series 1 cars and the larger and rather more luxurious Series 3 cars that would follow.
Chief among the Series 2’s attributes was its larger 4.2-liter dual-overhead-cam inline six, a feature introduced partway through E-Type Series 1 production; here, it produced 246 horsepower and, crucially, 263 pound-feet of torque. Some changes were prompted by evolving regulation, particularly new United States safety rules; others, including better engine cooling thanks to dual electric fans, a more ergonomic and comfortable cabin (complete with seats that now featured headrests), and improved three-caliper Girling front brake calipers and new Girling rear calipers, led to a more useable car that still proudly possessed the original E-Type spirit.
In total, some 8,627 Series 2 Roadsters were produced. According to the accompanying Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust production record trace certificate, this US-specification car was completed 10 February 1969 and dispatched for delivery 25 April 1969 via the New York British Leyland distributor. It was originally finished in Cream with Red interior and Black top.
After entering the Tenenbaum Collection, this E-Type was treated to a complete mechanical and cosmetic restoration by Steve’s Jaguar Service of Canoga Park, California. An extensive, itemized list of tasks on file illustrates the degree of care and attention to detail that went into every aspect of the work, which was completed in 2018. A brown leather interior upholstered by the award-winning Rafael “Rafi” Abramyan of Los Angeles, California’s Classic Car Interiors was fitted at this time, and it pairs beautifully with its factory-correct Cream exterior and Black convertible top. Gleaming wire wheels with earlier-style knock-off hubs provide a sporty finishing touch.
Refined in execution, yet still possessing the beauty and simplicity of the earliest production E-Types, Series 2 E-Types are as enjoyable to drive as they are to admire. This stunning restored example is accompanied by a Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust production record trace certificate and restoration documentation, and would be a fitting addition to any stable.
RM Sotheby’s is set to kick off the collector car auction calendar once again by returning to the stunning grounds of the Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa in Phoenix on 27 January for its 23rd annual Arizona sale. View all lots and register to bid online at RMSothebys.com.
