This 1967 Jaguar XKE Roadster S1 received a thorough restoration from 2009-10 under the seller’s ownership, which included a 5-speed transmission conversion, suspension and brake work, a high quality body-off repaint, and a new interior. The 4.2 liter straight-six engine is not original but was replaced with a correct ’67 4.2 liter unit by the previous owner back in 1986. The engine was refreshed with new seals, bearings, and hoses as part of the restoration. The owner has added 3000 miles to the car since the build was complete, and just had a $2k service performed with a new carbon throw-out bearing in preparation for sale. A log from the previous owner documents over 20 years of maintenance, and receipts for the restoration and work completed under current ownership are included.
The original color was Opalescent Sand, which was repainted in the current dark non-metallic blue. The owner was unimpressed by the initial paint and gaps, and had the car completely stripped, the panels refit, and then repainted for ~$18k by The Paint Shop in Burbank in late 2014. Paint was done to a high quality and still appears glossy. The owner reports that the only noticeable blemish is a single cm-wide chip on the rear cowl that’s been filled in with the correct matching paint. The body is very straight with no dents or dings visible, and the panel fitment looks appropriate.
The car features stock E-Type independent coil spring rear suspension with torsion bar front ends, and power-assisted disc brakes on all fours. In 2010, the suspension system was fitted with new tie rods, ball joints, and bushings, and the brakes were serviced with new brake lines, and new pads and rotors up front. Optional chrome spoke wheels with knock-offs are in good condition.
Chrome trim looks bright with no significant oxidation present, and all the badges are accounted for. New window seals and soft bits were replaced in 2009.
The interior, originally black, has been refurbished with new grey upholstery. Leather seats show very little use and overall the cockpit looks very sharp. The owner has kept a few of the patina’d interior pieces for originality sake, mainly the instrument panel vinyl, and the convertible top’s hinges, which are showing a bit of pitting.
Gauges and accessories are all said to function correctly, including the stock Series 1 toggle switches. No cracks are present on the dashtop, and the wood-rimmed steering wheel is in good condition.
A period Blaupunkt Frankfurt radio has been restored and is said to work properly. The remaining interior chrome trim and plastics are in good condition.
The 4.2 liter XK inline six-cylinder engine increased engine torque by around 10% over the 3.8 engine, had an alternator in place of a generator, an electrical system switched to negative ground, and a more reliable brake booster. Records show this car received a replacement ’67 4.2 liter XK engine in September 1986.
The engine was restored in 2009 and the transmission was upgraded to a 5-speed gearbox. All of the hoses, bearings, and gaskets were replaced, and new wiring was installed throughout. The owner notes the 5-speed is very fun to drive and that the car is reliable, idles smoothly, and has plenty of power. The most recent service included an oil and filter change, and new plugs.