DEMAND for classic vehicles around the world has led to Jaguar Land Rover announcing the launch of comprehensively-restored Series 1 E-Types from its Jaguar Classic facility in Coventry.

The better-than-new E-Types are part of Jaguar Classic’s Reborn program that previously offered Series 1 Land Rovers and Range Rovers.

It will initially offer 10 E-Types made from 1961 to 1968. Prices start from $A480,000. The cars are sourced and purchased from around the world by Jaguar Classic and then undergo a complete restoration.

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The first to go through the program was a 1965 Series 1 Fixed Head Coupe 4.2 that was exported to California in May 1965. It went into storage in 1983 with only 78,000 miles (125,000km) on the clock.

It retains its original matching numbers for the bodyshell, engine and gearbox; all of which have been completely rebuilt by Jaguar Classic. The restorers will retain as much of the original vehicle as possible and refurbish components to correct specifications. Any safety-critical parts are replaced with new items.

Body panels from Jaguar Classic’s reverse-engineered panel program are fitted where necessary, to remove corrosion and restore the E-Type’s iconic looks with the best fit possible. Bodywork includes recreating the correct type of spot-welding on the panels.

Upgrades can include improved cooling using Lightweight E-Type-derived parts, all-synchromesh gearbox (if not fitted to the vehicle originally), or Series 2 front brake callipers.

Every E-Type Reborn, which starts with a base vehicle sourced by Jaguar’s E-Type experts, is completely restored according to the company’s original 1960s factory specification.

The restorers have access to build records and original drawings held by the Jaguar Heritage Trust and use their experience to restore cars up to concours-winning standard to ensure absolute authenticity. They use Jaguar Classic Parts throughout.

By Neil Dowling