Few cars have the cachet of a E-Type – one of the great sports cars of all time. This car was delivered new in the USA, as were over 80 percent of E-Types. A 1984 registration slip shows the owner was William JD Marshall-Gratrix, who is still living in Reno, Navada, aged 94 today.
In 2011 the car imported to Western Australia arriving early in 2013. The buyer was a Perth doctor who was a serious car collector.
In between purchase and shipping, the car was subject to a lot of restoration work in Reno. The Jaguar had been in reasonably good condition, rust-free and tidy but was the subject of detailed restoration work.
It joined a collection with three other E-Types, each a different version. This car was the oldest E-Type in the collection. Most aficionados believe the Series 1 E-Type to be the most collectable.
The decision was made to convert the car to right-hand-drive, as many Australians are uncomfortable driving a left-hooker. Fortunately this is a straightforward conversion on an E-Type, involving no cutting or welding, with a kit readily available (as with all E-Type parts).
The 3.8-litre E-Type motor, with triple SU carburettors (recently rebuilt) puts out a healthy 265hp (198kW) in the early E-Types, weighing just over 1200kg, giving plentiful performance.
In very good condition, this is not a concours trailer queen, but a good usable, presentable example. The body and paintwork of the car remain in very good condition. The car has a rare removable hardtop, in good condition, but no soft-top. One could be fitted without much difficulty.
The car starts easily and runs smoothly, having recently been serviced in preparation for sale.
If sold to a Western Australian buyer the numberplates JAGE1 can go with the car.
The wonderful ‘60s style, tremendous performance and enduring collectability are the elements of an automotive icon.
Please request a more detailed description and set of photos by email from [email protected]
