Jaguar E-Type S1 OTS OBL

Jaguar E type 3.8 OTS obl

We are proud to offer you, on behalf of the owner, this Jaguar E-Type Series 1 OTS OBL, which we have fully restored. We are renowned for our high-quality restorations of Series 1 E-Types, but this was also a challenging and particularly enjoyable project for us. This open two-seater was built in June 1961, making it a very early example of the E-Type. This is a so-called ‘outside bonnet lock’ model with chassis number 289, meaning it belongs to the so-called ‘first five hundred’. The car is fully matching numbers and matching colours, which is to be expected for such a unique car.

A few years ago, this car was offered to us for a complete restoration. It had been brought to the attention of an investor by a well-known auction house, and on the auction house’s recommendation, the investor decided to entrust the car to us. Although the car was matching numbers and in particularly good condition, during a previous restoration, the specific features and details that make a car from the first five hundred examples so special – and which distinguish it from the other Series 1 E-types – had been overlooked. These details include, for example, different designs for the number plate lights, windscreen trim, chrome door mouldings, ashtray, boot drainage, drive shafts, welded-in bonnet louvres, and of course the characteristic external bonnet latch, as well as numerous other small details. This was the challenge for us; we took our time to work out exactly which details we needed to restore. We started by completely stripping the car and having the paint stripped off, after which we restored the body details to how they were in 1961. We then smoothed the car’s surface and sprayed it in Carmen Red. Standox, our paint supplier, worked with us to research and identify the original colour formula, which they then produced for us. Our mechanics have thoroughly overhauled the entire mechanical system, paying attention to every detail. In doing so, they made the most of all the information they could glean from the documentation and manuals. The engine was completely overhauled to original specifications, and the gearbox underwent the same treatment. All chrome parts were re-chromed by G&R Chroming, renowned for their top-quality chrome work, after being refitted. Once the entire car had been reassembled, a new interior was created in collaboration with our upholsterer, again using the original materials wherever possible.

The result is impressive; this car not only looks as good as new but also drives exactly as you’d expect from a car of this calibre. The six-cylinder engine has regained its full power, and the gearbox is easy to operate. Although the first series of E-types weren’t known for their impressive braking performance, our car more than makes up for it. We have treated ourselves to a small upgrade to the cooling system with an aluminium radiator (in its original form with the side louvers) combined with an electric fan controlled by a Revotec fan controller.

The entire restoration is backed up by a comprehensive file containing invoices and photographs, and the car also comes with Dutch registration. Apart from our test mileage, the car is as good as new and will be delivered with a valuation report. We would be delighted to invite serious prospective buyers for a detailed viewing, during which we will be happy to tell you everything about this unique Jag.