This 1965 Jaguar XKE is a Series I roadster that was acquired by the seller in January 2003, and mechanical work between 2013 and 2016 included rebuilding the engine and overhauling the brakes and suspension components. It is powered by a 4.2-liter inline-six mated to a four-speed manual transmission and is finished in red over tan leather upholstery. Equipment includes a tan soft top, 15″ knock-off wire wheels, four-wheel disc brakes, triple SU carburetors, an aluminum radiator, a four-spoke steering wheel, and a Jensen CD stereo. The carburetors were repaired in 2023, and the spark plugs, brake fluid reservoir, battery cable, and coolant hoses were replaced at that time. This XKE Series I was previously offered on BaT in November 2023 and is now offered again with records beginning in 2000, service manuals, removed parts, a tan top boot cover, a knock-off hammer, a Jaguar Heritage Trust certificate, and a Virginia title in the seller’s name.
The Series I E-Types were equipped with covered headlights and taillights mounted above the chrome rear bumpers. This example was initially delivered in Cream and was refinished in red at an unknown time under previous ownership. The seller notes that paintwork was performed and dents were repaired in 2003. A replacement tan soft top was installed in 2005, and additional details include a louvered clamshell hood, a black top boot, dual center-exit exhaust outlets, and chrome bumper guards. The right wheel opening is misaligned. A tan top boot cover is included in the sale.
Chrome 15″ knock-off wire wheels were mounted with 185-series Michelin XVS tires in 2020, and a spare is stored in the trunk. The brakes were refreshed in 2014, at which time the rear calipers, booster, and lines were replaced and the front calipers were rebuilt. The right rear caliper was rebuilt in June 2021, the brake reservoir was replaced in May 2023, and the brake master cylinder was replaced in 2024. The suspension was overhauled in 2013, and the bushings for the control arms, sway bar end links, and steering rack were replaced in 2021.
The interior features low-back bucket seats trimmed in tan leather accompanied by a color-coordinated armrest, door panels, and carpets. Appointments include a heater, lap belts, and an aftermarket Jensen CD stereo linked to speakers mounted on each side of the center stack. Wear is noted on the seats. The removed factory stereo and steering wheel are included in the sale.
The leather-wrapped four-spoke steering wheel sits ahead of Smiths instrumentation that includes a 160-mph speedometer, a tachometer, and readouts for water temperature, oil pressure, fuel level, and amperage. The five-digit odometer shows 56k miles, approximately 6k of which were added under current ownership. The tachometer was rebuilt in 2016 and the speedometer was repaired in 2000. True mileage is unknown.
The 4.2-liter inline-six was overhauled in February 2013 and was rebuilt two years later by Abacus Racing of Virginia Beach, Virginia. Work included regrinding the crankshaft, replacing the clutch, and installing .030″ over pistons. An aluminum radiator and replacement exhaust system have been installed. The fuel pump was replaced and the fuel level sender was repaired in 2021. The triple SU carburetors were rebuilt in May 2023, and the spark plugs, battery cable, and coolant hoses were also replaced at that time.
The cylinder head stamp is shown above.
Power is sent to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission. The lower lip of the front frame was straightened and repaired with body filler in 2014, and additional photos of the underside are provided in the image gallery.
The Jaguar Heritage Trust certificate lists factory colors and identification numbers along with the build date and distribution through Jaguar Cars of New York.
A collection of photos taken during some of the work can be seen in the gallery.
The Virginia title lists “Exceeds” under the odometer brand section.