1970 Jaguar E-Type

HISTORY OF THE E-TYPE SERIES II:

Considered by many to be the quintessential British sports car, the Jaguar E-Types unveiling in 1961 caused a sensation with both the press and the public. Admirers came from all walks of life; even Enzo Ferrari famously referred to it as the most beautiful car ever made. Beneath its gorgeous looks was a revolutionary sports car featuring rack-and-pinion steering, fully independent suspension, and four-wheel disc brakes with inward-mounted rear rotors-technology that matched the already proven performance of the 3.8 litre XK engine.

The Series II E-Type was introduced in 1968 and continued the models tradition of strong performance mated to an iconic shape. Improvements were plentiful and included an enlarged grille opening to aid cooling, as well as a more refined interior that still satisfied the sportiest of drivers. All Series II E-Types were equipped with the larger 4.2 litre engine, and discerning buyers could option power steering and air conditioning. A very small percentage were further specified with the optional 3-speed Borg-Warner fully automatic transmission, allowing the E-Type to glide effortlessly through traffic.

With its timeless design, proven performance, and racing heritage, the Jaguar E-Type remains one of the most coveted and sought-after British classics of all time.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED:

The 1970 Jaguar E-Type Series II Fixed Head Coupe offered here is finished in its factory-correct color combination of Signal Red over Black leather interior trim. According to the accompanying Jaguar-Daimler Heritage Trust Certificate, chassis number 1R27909 was completed at Jaguars Coventry works in March 1970 and dispatched to British Leyland of New York the following month.

While the cars early ownership history remains undocumented, it is believed to have spent much of its life in California. Evidence supporting this includes a 1970s-era California Department of Consumer Affairs NOx System Exemption sticker still affixed to the right-hand side of the windshield. Additionally, a previous Missouri State title issued in 2021 lists California as the prior state of registration.

The vehicle reportedly underwent a thorough restoration beginning around 2021, which included a respray in its factory original Signal Red, along with new weatherstripping and refreshed brightwork. When acquired by ITS ALIVE! in the fall of 2025, our team was immediately impressed by the cars level of fit and finish, as well as its excellent running and driving characteristics.

The XK-E displays evidence of a comprehensive restoration, including new hardware securing the front suspension and engine frames. Tasteful upgrades are present throughout, beginning under the bonnet where the numbers-matching 4.2 litre DOHC inline-six has been enhanced with a twin SU carburetor conversion. A set of steel performance headers allows the engine to breathe freely, while cooling is aided by an OE-style aluminum radiator with modern electric fans-maintaining an original appearance while improving performance and reliability.

Inside, much of the interior trim appears original, including the headliner, sun visors, door cards, and center console, all of which show minimal wear. The front seats, however, required attention due to deteriorated foam and splitting leather. Our in-house specialists addressed this by installing new black leather seat covers and foam sourced from O.S.J.I. of Muncie, Indiana. Additional interior appointments include a 15-inch riveted wood-rim steering wheel-a nod to earlier Series I cars-along with dual winged chrome knockoffs securing the 60-spoke chrome wire wheels. Recent reconditioning by ITS ALIVE! also included the installation of a fresh set of 185R15 redline tires from Coker.

Today, this Series II E-Type performs as well as it presents, offering the level of reliability found only in extremely well-sorted examples. The numbers-matching 4.2 litre XK engine revs freely and pulls consistently throughout the power band, while the exhaust note-enhanced by a pair of inline Glasspack mufflers-delivers an unmistakable Jaguar growl and gurgle.

Chassis 1R27909 presents as a fully restored and extremely well-sorted Series II Fixed Head Coupe with a brilliant finish, refreshed interior, and sorted mechanicals. The detailed engine bay provides a true wow factor when the bonnet is opened to reveal the legendary XK inline-six, while thoughtful touches such as the wood-rim steering wheel and fresh redline tires help this E-Type stand out-even among other restored examples.

ITS ALIVE! is proud to offer this restored and exceptionally well-presented Jaguar E-Type Series II Fixed Head Coupe. To inquire further, please call 314-710-6600 or email Sales@ItsAliveAuto.com.