MORE ABOUT THIS CLASSIC

From the showroom is this fantastically restored original California Black Plate Series 1 fixed-head coupe. This desirable classic has since undertaken a full nut and bolt restoration completed in 2018, finished in Opalescent Gunmetal over Dark Blue trim, all lead by the current owner, a well known British Touring Car Champion, who steered the specification to an exceptionally high-level performance, fitting countless upgrades resulting in an unbeatable driving experience.

Rolling off the production line in September 1963, this original California black plate car was delivered to an MR R L Woods of Long Beach, California, finished in original left-hand drive with an eye-catching Pale Primrose Yellow over Black colour combination. It is believed that the following chassis numbers; #205, #206 and #207, were also finished in Pale Primrose Yellow and delivered to Long Beach before the year's end.

While the E-type’s earliest years were not documented, the Series 1 resurfaced again in 2013, offered as an ideal restoration project by a Californian classic car dealer. At the time the E-type had received a respray to a Maroon but more significantly was recorded to be fitted with the countries beloved Ford 289 V8, instead of its heritage 3.8L straight-six. Being a dry state example, the E-type was advertised as a solid classic and prime candidate for restoration.

Spending little time on the market, the E-type was sourced and purchased by a UK based classic car restoration firm located in Hertfordshire. Once having arrived in the UK, ready to start the restoration, a closer inspection was undertaken highlighting that the shell required some extensive metalwork to return this 50+ year old automotive icon back to its former glory.

Being enthusiasts, the restorers began documenting the restoration starting with a full component strip down and acid bath. The shell began its reconstruction requiring all-new engine frames, sills, driver and passenger floors alongside more general repairs. Once completed the shell received a round of filler to restore the iconic body and shut lines the industry has come to expect from these 1960’s classics. To finish off the body transformation the E-type was sprayed in an elegant Opalescent Gunmetal, thus signifying the start of the rebuild process.

It was at this time the E-type was purchased by its current owner, a well-known British Touring Car Champion. With the owner's vision and expertise, the E-type was to receive a performance lead rebuild starting with the engine. Having sourced a period-correct 3.8L straight-six, the heart of this E-type started a lengthily full nut and bolt engine rebuild in 2017. It was decided to finish this XK engine to fast road specification, boasting a gas flowed head, high lift cams, lightweight flywheel, balanced and lightened crank. To ensure optimal performance, key components were sourced from well-known competition engine specialists, Rob Beere Racing. Once built the engine was dyno tested and had been recorded to be putting out an impressive 280 bhp.

The mechanical rebuild was given the same level of attention as the engine, promising high performance and reliability. Further upgrades to ensure this include:

• 4-speed synchro gearbox
• Marston style Aluminium radiator with silicone cooling hoses
• ITG performance air filter
• Mild steel sports exhaust system with silencer delete
• High torque starter motor
• Electronic ignition
• Period styled Dynator upgrade
• Uprated suspension featuring Koni classic shock absorbers
• Uprated Coopercraft brakes with four-pot calipers

With an uprated drivetrain, ignition, suspension, braking and more, this E-type has been equipped to handle modern road conditions and driving, promising unbeatable performance.

Alongside building a competitive road-going example, the interior was also beautifully retrimmed to a classic Dark Blue leather, fitting a host of modern luxuries to further enhance the driving experience. Upgrades include:

• Electronic power steering
• Heated rear window
• LED interior lighting
• Tadpole period looking radio with Bluetooth, iPod & DAB connectivity.
• Additional glovebox USB charging ports.

To place the cherry on top of this transformation of an original California Black plate car, the E-type has been fitted with triple lace competition wire wheels and period-correct tyres.

Since completing its restoration in 2018, the E-type has been meticulously cared for with regular use, putting the classic through its paces taking part in classic rallies to Le Mans, France and is a well-known example in the British Racing Drivers’ Club (BRDC) circles.

Today, the E-type enters the market offering high performance in a carefully restored 60’s shell. Featuring minor road marks and paintwork blemishes from its travels over the years, this particular example is an unmissable purchase, ready and capable of keeping up with modern traffic and then some. Alongside its restoration, the E-type is accompanied by two large and detailed binders of history, consisting of a full photography portfolio of restoration works, invoicing, and upgrades. As well as original documentation featuring sale brochures, manufacturer's warranty, handbook and plastic wallets, wall service chart, US Service network handbook, original tool roll, jack and bag. Giving this restored classic some deserved heritage.

The E-type is available for immediate viewing, should you wish to arrange a viewing please contact us on +44 (0) 1732 852 762/+44 (0) 1732 440 494 or email sales@etypeuk.com.