1970 Jaguar E-Type Series II Fixed Head Coupé

Some cars need no introduction and the Jaguar E-Type is no exception. The Series II Jaguar E-Types that were produced from 1969 to 1971 can be identified by their open headlights, no longer with glass covers, a wrap-around rear bumper with the tail lights now underneath, and the front indicators were larger and similarly repositioned below the slightly heavier front bumpers. The cooling was much improved helped by the enlarged 'mouth'. Series II cars also feature twin electric fans and uprated brakes. The engine is easily identified visually by the change from smooth polished cam covers to a ribbed appearance and for US-spec cars, twin Stromberg carburetors were used. The interior and dashboard were also redesigned, with flick switches being substituted by rocker switches to meet U.S regulations.

This particular 1970 Jaguar E-type Series II Fixed Head Coupé is finished in Regency Red with a Black leather interior and a manual gearbox and was supplied new to its first owner, Phyliss and Charles Butler on 12th September 1970, in Encinitas, California. He kept the car until 29th October 1974 then it was sold to a F.W. Steinberger, who kept the car until his death in 2014. Mr Steinberger was President and Chief Concours Judge of the Jaguar Club of North America for many years, cementing his enthusiasm for the marque further.

In 1997 Mr Steinberger felt that car would benefit from some attention, and being a concours judge no expense was spared in terms of parts or workmanship on a thorough restoration. The car was entrusted to Jaguar marque specialist 'More Than Just Cars' of Upland, California to carry out the work, which is recorded photographically in the history file. The glass, brightwork, rubbers and interior were all removed, so that the car could be stripped back to bare metal, before being etch primed and refinished in its original colour of Regency Red. At the same time, all the chrome was replated and window rubbers renewed. The interior was treated to a retrim which included new seat foam, door panels, carpets, dash top pad and a new headlining. A smaller steering wheel was also fitted to alleviate the acrobatics usually associated with getting in and out of an E-Type! The car was also used in many promotional videos and at events, the last being the premiere in Las Vegas of the movie The Mechanic, where the car was driven onto the red carpet by Jason Statham!

Imported to the UK in 2014 and then purchased by our vendor, the car was professionally converted to right-hand drive in 2015 by respected E-type specialists, Lanes Cars. Whilst this work was undertaken, other jobs were attended to, including; fitting a new engine frame, new front suspension, attending to dents on the underside, a brand new wiring loom, and new Dunlop tyres. The engine was serviced at this time also including fresh fluids. Bills for more than £14,000 for this work are included in the history file.

This car is supplied with a Jaguar Heritage certificate, a UK V5c, an MOT until October '17, its owner's operating manual and warranty booklets in their original Jaguar pouch. With Jaguar E-type prices seemingly continue to soar, this three-owner Series II fixed head coupé is in fine condition and represents superb value in today's market.