1966 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 Roadster - 4.2/265 HP, 5-Speed. Estimate $285,000 - $315,000. Photo by David Newhardt, Courtesy of Mecum Auctions.

Jaguar had a deep well of experience to draw upon in creating the revolutionary XKE that debuted at the Geneva Auto Show in 1961. The new E-Type followed the Le Mans-winning D-Type in its basic design, which centered on a steel monocoque chassis with front and rear subframes, but it was the direct descendent of a lightweight alloy-bodied car raced at Le Mans in 1960. Nothing like it had ever been produced, and its performance was unmatched even by vehicles costing much more. The slippery body was more than pretty, it provided fabulous aerodynamics to slide through the wind, and the powerful six-cylinder engines easily propelled them to astonishing speeds, even to today's standards. While it's easy to say the E-Type just popped up overnight, it's not true. The E-Type was the result of years of racing development with the Jaguar C-Type and D-Type race cars, which the E-Type largely resembles. The drivetrains were similar in many respects, contributing to the E-Types overall performance prowess, and helped the car become a performance leader. Styling over the years was refined as well as interior accoutrements until ultimately the E-Type had run its course by 1974. But, the E-Type would not go quietly into that good night, and today, the model is just as revered and respected as it was when it was new.

Boasting such desirable Series I features as covered headlights, comfortable bucket seats, competition-style toggle switches, excellent instrumentation, a center console and arm rest, this 1966 Jaguar XKE Series 1 roadster was the recipient of a documented comprehensive restoration by a group of Jaguar professionals. The car was stripped to bare metal, painted, wet sanded and buffed for a virtually flawless finish. A New Black BASS interior was installed along with a new soft top on the restored original bows. The engine and suspension were rebuilt, all the systems were gone through, and it was fitted with new chromed wire wheels and radial tires. The car’s exhilarating performance benefits from several upgrades including headers, a 5-speed fully synchronized transmission, stainless steel exhaust, cooling fan, Gaz adjustable shocks, Wilwood disc brakes with braided stainless brake flex lines, a high-torque starter, alloy radiator and poly bushings throughout. This classic early E-Type was recently detailed and well sorted by marque specialists Classic Showcase of Oceanside, California.

Mecum Monterey 2015