Description
Jaguar E-Type Series 1 Cabriolet | 1965
Highlights:
- Rare Series 1 model with matching 4.2-litre straight-six engine
- Manual gearbox
- Good mechanical condition
- UK registration, currently located in Poland
The seller offers for sale this 1965 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 cabriolet, an iconic British sports car equipped with a 4.2-litre inline-six engine paired with a manual transmission. This example is presented in cabriolet form, with all the aesthetic and performance hallmarks that have made the E-Type a landmark in motoring history. With 6 cylinders and a petrol fuel system, this E-Type offers the driving purity characteristic of its era.
It retains its original mechanical setup with no aftermarket modifications like power steering or disc brake upgrades. Lights and indicators are functional, and the vehicle has a valid inspection certificate.
The exterior and interior of the car have been reported to be in good condition by the seller. Paintwork requires no touch-ups, and all interior components are present and in order. While these evaluations are the seller’s opinion, visual documentation supports this assessment. The body panels appear even and well-aligned, and the cabin trim looks complete.
Mechanically, the car is described as good. Overall, this example is in a beautiful condition, although a professional viewing is always recommended.
The Jaguar E-Type, known as the XK-E in North America, was launched in 1961 and became an instant design icon. The Series 1, built from 1961 to 1968, is particularly prized for its covered headlamps, smaller grille opening, and purity of design. Early models like this 1965 example benefited from technical improvements such as a more powerful 4.2-litre engine introduced in 1964. This unit delivered more torque while retaining the triple SU carburettor setup and producing a sonorous exhaust note.
The E-Type was groundbreaking for its time, featuring monocoque construction, independent rear suspension, and disc brakes on all four wheels. It offered performance on par with Italian exotics of the era, yet at a fraction of the cost. Enzo Ferrari famously described it as the most beautiful car ever made. Available as both coupe and roadster, the open-top variant like this one is especially popular among collectors. The Series 1 Roadster is distinguished by its sculpted rear end, wire wheels, and minimalist chrome accents.
Beyond performance and beauty, the E-Type has enjoyed lasting cultural impact. It was a favourite of celebrities such as Steve McQueen and Brigitte Bardot and has appeared in numerous films and media. Over time, appreciation for its engineering and historical significance has grown, making well-kept Series 1 examples highly desirable in the classic car market. Values have steadily risen, especially for numbers-matching and low-mileage examples like this one. It remains one of the most recognisable and celebrated classic sports cars of all time.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Inowrocław County, Poland
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a UK registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
