1968 Jaguar XKE Series 1.5
Vehicle Specifications
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The Jaguar XKE: "The Most Beautiful Car Ever Built"
When the Jaguar XKE (E-Type) was unveiled at the 1961 Geneva Motor Show, it caused a sensation. Enzo Ferrari himself called it "the most beautiful car ever built." Fifty years later, that assessment still holds. The XKE's long hood, sculpted fenders, and elegant proportions make it one of the most desirable classic cars of all time.
The Series 1.5: A Unique Transitional Model
The XKE was produced in three series. Series 1 (1961-1968) featured covered headlights and smaller taillights. Series 2 (1969-1971) had open headlights, larger taillights, and revised bumpers. The Series 1.5 (1968) is a rare transitional model that combined Series 1 mechanicals with Series 2 safety features.
Key characteristics of the Series 1.5 include:
- ✅ Open headlights (like Series 2) without the bulky surrounds
- ✅ Series 1 dashboard and toggle switches (more desirable than Series 2 rockers)
- ✅ 4.2L engine with triple SU carburetors (Series 1 specification)
- ✅ Improved brakes and safety features (Series 2 updates)
- ✅ Only produced for a few months — making it the rarest of the three series
For collectors, the Series 1.5 offers the best of both worlds: the desirable interior and engine of the Series 1 with the improved safety and open headlights of the Series 2. Only approximately 2,500 Series 1.5 cars were built, making them highly sought after.
The Legendary XK Engine
The heart of the XKE is the 4.2-liter XK inline-six, an engine that traces its lineage to Jaguar's Le Mans-winning C-Type and D-Type race cars. With 265 horsepower and 283 lb-ft of torque, the XKE was capable of 150 mph — making it the fastest production car of its era.
The engine is a masterpiece of engineering. The triple SU carburetors provide crisp throttle response. The sound is unmistakable — a deep, resonant growl that builds to a metallic howl at high RPMs. The torque curve is flat, providing effortless acceleration in any gear.
About This Specific XKE
This 1968 Jaguar XKE is a genuine Series 1.5 roadster finished in British Racing Green over a Black leather interior. With just 72,000 original miles, this car has been driven regularly and maintained to a high standard. The current owner has owned the car for 12 years and has invested over $30,000 in restoration and maintenance.
The car presents beautifully. The British Racing Green paint is deep and glossy. The chrome is bright and straight. The leather interior shows minimal wear. The engine bay is clean and correctly detailed. This is a car that is ready for shows, rallies, and weekend drives.
Recent Restoration & Maintenance
- ✅ Full engine rebuild — Performed at 68,000 miles. New pistons, rings, bearings, timing chain
- ✅ Carburetors — Triple SU carburetors professionally rebuilt and synchronized
- ✅ Cooling system — New radiator, water pump, hoses
- ✅ Brake system — New master cylinder, calipers rebuilt, new pads, rotors
- ✅ Suspension — New shocks, bushings, tie rod ends
- ✅ Transmission — Synchros replaced, new seals, bearings
- ✅ Clutch — New clutch assembly
- ✅ Electrical — New alternator, battery, wiring harness checked
- ✅ Paint — Professional respray in correct British Racing Green
- ✅ Tires — New Vredestein Classic tires (period-correct)
The XKE Market: A Blue-Chip Collectible
The Jaguar XKE market has seen significant appreciation over the past decade. According to auction data from RM Sotheby's, Gooding & Company, and Bring a Trailer:
- 📊 Average Series 1.5 sale price in 2024: $85,000-$110,000
- 📊 Concours-quality Series 1 roadsters have sold for $150,000+
- 📊 The Series 1.5 offers better value than Series 1 while retaining most desirable features
- 📊 Fixed-head coupes (FHC) command higher prices than roadsters
- 📊 The XKE remains one of the most collectible British cars of all time
At $79,900, this Series 1.5 roadster represents excellent value for a well-restored example. With the Series 1.5's rarity and desirability, this is a car that is likely to continue appreciating.
Driving the XKE
The XKE is a visceral experience. The driving position is low and snug. The long hood stretches out before you. The steering is heavy at low speeds but weights up beautifully at speed. The ride is firm but compliant — this is a sports car, not a luxury sedan.
The 4.2-liter XK engine is the highlight. It pulls strongly from 1,500 rpm all the way to its 5,500 rpm redline. The 4-speed manual transmission has a long throw but is precise and rewarding. The exhaust note is intoxicating — a deep, resonant burble at idle that turns into a metallic howl as the revs rise.
On a winding road, the XKE comes alive. The independent front and rear suspension provides excellent grip and feedback. The car feels balanced and predictable. This is not a car that tolerates mistakes — but reward skillful driving with an unforgettable experience.
What to Look For When Buying an XKE
As experts in British sports cars, here's what we inspect on every XKE:
- 🔧 Rust — The #1 enemy of XKEs. Check the floor pans, rocker panels, frame rails, and around the windshield. This car has been restored and is rust-free.
- 🔧 Engine health — The XK engine is robust but can suffer from timing chain wear. This engine has been rebuilt.
- 🔧 Transmission — The Moss gearbox can be fragile. This car has had the synchros replaced.
- 🔧 Cooling system — XKEs can run hot. This car has a new radiator and water pump.
- 🔧 Electrical systems — Lucas electrics have a reputation. All systems on this car are functional.
- 🔧 Documentation — We have service records for the past 12 years and restoration photos.
- 🔧 Matching numbers — This car retains its original engine and transmission.
Shipping This Jaguar XKE to Your State
We offer enclosed transport to anywhere in the United States and worldwide. Here are estimated shipping costs to popular locations:
📞 Call +1 201-285-2590 for an exact quote. Worldwide shipping available — we've shipped XKEs to the UK, Germany, Japan, and Australia.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Jaguar XKE
Everything you need to know before buying a classic E-Type
