1966 Jaguar XKE E-Type Roadster

The Jaguar E-Type was launched in 1961 at the Geneva Motor Show. It offered supercar performance, superb styling, and a low price tag. Built as a monocoque with a front sub-frame to cradle the engine, the model's combination of all-round independent suspension, four-wheel disc brakes, and rack-and-pinion steering provided excellent road-holding and handling capabilities.

The dual overhead cam, 3781cc straight-six engine had triple SU HD8 carburetors and produced 265 horsepower. Aligned with a four-speed Moss gearbox, the low-slung two-seater could travel from zero-to-sixty mph in 6.9 seconds and onto 150 mph.

This Jaguar E-Type Series 1 4.2-liter Roadster was built on December 22nd of 1966, finished in Opalescent Maroon over black with a matching soft top. The first owner was Peta Hosta Jr. who acquired it in January of 1967 through Jaguar Cars in New York. Mr. Hosta maintained the car until 1970, when it was sold to Katherine Johnson. Ms. Johnson used the E-Type for a few years until she married and moved to a new home, leaving the Jaguar parked in a barn at her family farm. The car remained in the barn until her passing, where it was sold as part of her estate. It was subsequently owned by Terry Larson, before coming into the care of its current owner.

The current owner has given the car a restoration and refinished it in Opalescent Dark Grey with a Cinnamon interior. The engine and transmission were rebuilt, and the transmission now has a 3.33:1 final drive ratio. The wheels are one inch wider than the factory items, allowing a 205-70-15 Michelin to fit.

By Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2017