2019-07-30 11:06:04 | Harry Stevens writes:

Lot 86 at Berlinetta Classic Car Auction near Bicester on 25th July 2019. Sold for £39,050. Abbreviated catalogue description below.
www.berlinetta-auctions.co.uk/weekly/car-detail/lot-86-1962-jaguar-e-type-3-8-li ...

The Jaguar Heritage certificate confirms that this open 2 seater was manufactured on 27th August 1962 and dispatched to Jaguar Cars New York on 5th September that year. Painted in Opalescent Dark Blue with Dark Blue interior trim and Blue Hood, we feel there is no better combination in an early E Type. Purchased by the vendor some years ago from the United States this E is ripe for restoration.

More or less in one piece, the vast majority of the car is there. From what we see the rust appears concentrated in the cockpit floors and sills with such areas as the boot floor, upper bulkhead and sub frames relatively sound. The top rail of the picture frame is distorted and there is corrosion in the door bottoms and wheel arches though the bonnet, while having some dents is relatively rust free. Given the condition of the tub it has been braced across the door apertures to ensure its critical dimensions.

The original steering wheel is in pretty good condition. The correct 3.8 seats are in place, all be it retrimmed at some stage. The interior trim needs replacing and a mechanical rebuild should be expected. The now unobtainable Marston radiator is present along with nice items such a period radio, glass water bottle, bottle jack and copper hammer.

For all its bodyshell issues, it scores well with originality, a matching numbers car throughout with engine block, head, sub frame and body all with stamped numbers matching those on the chassis plate and heritage certificate. Original paint found in the boot confirms it retains its original factory livery. A great opportunity to restore an early E Type.