A Pristine 1968 Jaguar XK-E: A British Icon Reimagined
Experience Automotive Elegance: The Enduring Legacy of the 1968 Jaguar XK-E
A Timeless Classic: The Enduring Appeal of a 1960s Automotive Icon
The Jaguar E-Type, widely recognized in North America as the XK-E, stands as a pivotal British automotive creation from the 1960s. Introduced in 1961 and produced through 1974, the model featured in this discussion hails from the midpoint of its production span. Renowned for its potential to reach speeds up to 150 mph and its captivating aesthetics, the E-Type was lauded by Sports Car International as the preeminent sports car of its decade. This particular example, boasting a mere 33,000 miles and a distinctive rear bench seat, is currently available for purchase on Exotic Car Trader, representing a significant opportunity for collectors.
Vibrant Transformation: The Exterior Refinement of a Vintage Masterpiece
This particular 1968 XK-E has undergone a striking transformation with a vibrant red repaint approximately eight years ago, infusing new vitality into its classic design. The car's silhouette is characterized by its sleek, low-slung front end and a gracefully rounded cabin that tapers towards the rear, embodying the retro-futuristic design ethos of its era. Complementing this bold color are polished chrome bumpers, intricate chrome wire wheels, and fixed-beam headlights, a design choice distinct from the European market's covered headlights. The rear hatch, designed for driver-side access, seamlessly integrates into the vehicle's aerodynamic profile, culminating in a sharp, angled tail.
A Journey Through Time: The Immaculately Preserved Interior
The interior of this 1968 E-Type presents an extraordinary level of preservation, featuring a '2+2' seating configuration with two primary front seats and two compact rear seats, despite its two-door design. The entire cabin is adorned in a luminous whitish-beige hue, contrasted by a black dashboard embellished with wood and silver accents. A contemporary radio equipped with USB connectivity has been thoughtfully integrated, maintaining a vintage aesthetic. Upgrades to the heating system and its conduits were made using new steel, yet all other components remain true to the period. The steering wheel, a three-spoke design, is elegantly finished with polished dark wood, and the classic Smiths analog gauges retain their original luster.
Power and Precision: The Mechanical Heart of the XK-E
Access to the engine is achieved by an innovative forward-tilting hood mechanism, revealing a formidable 4.2-liter, naturally aspirated inline 6-cylinder engine. This powertrain is coupled with twin Zenith-Stromberg carburetors and a 4-speed manual gearbox, delivering power to the rear wheels. The 2+2 variant of the Jaguar E-Type notably extended the wheelbase by 9 inches and offered increased trunk capacity, enhancing its capabilities for extended tours. Recent maintenance includes the replacement of shocks and the brake system, along with the addition of a stainless steel dual-pipe exhaust system.
The Legacy Continues: A Collector's Dream
Legend has it that Enzo Ferrari once proclaimed the E-Type as "the most beautiful car ever made" upon its debut. While the authenticity of this claim remains debated, it perfectly encapsulates the widespread admiration the model received and its enduring appeal among enthusiasts today. This specific example of Jaguar's preeminence in the British sports car domain is exceptionally well-maintained, combining its inherent classic charm with strategic enhancements, making it an ideal acquisition for the modern collector.