Introduction
Beneath the revised S2 exterior lay the true virtue of the 2+2 configuration: unparalleled classic grand touring practicality.
The debut of the Jaguar E-Type at the 1961 Geneva Motor Show transformed the automotive world overnight. Featuring a sleek, aerodynamic bonnet, unibody design, and a top speed approaching 150 mph, it rapidly attained iconic status- so much so that Enzo Ferrari famously declared it the most beautiful car ever built. Yet, while the early Series 1 was a thrilling, purebred sports car, Jaguar recognised the need to refine it into a more practical, comfortable grand tourer. That vision reached its peak with the Series 2 4.2-litre 2+2, produced from 1968 to 1971.
The Series 2 arrived during a challenging era for imported sports cars, largely driven by strict new US federal safety and emissions standards. Instead of shelving the platform, Jaguar engineers capitalised on these requirements to thoroughly refine the vehicle, making the Series 2 the most mechanically refined and structurally sound version of the six-cylinder line-up. The 2+2 variant featured an extended wheelbase, with nearly all the extra length added directly to the doors for easier cabin access. Combined with a slightly higher roofline and a redesigned, steeper windscreen that enhanced high-speed aerodynamics, the 2+2 delivered functional rear seats and significantly increased cargo space.
At the mechanical heart of this refined grand tourer was the definitive 4.2-litre variant of Jaguar’s legendary dual-overhead-camshaft XK straight-six engine. Retaining its classic triple SU carburettor setup, the car was celebrated for its 'magic carpet' ride quality, delivering effortless, long-distance comfort. Ultimately, the 2+2 served as the perfect mechanical bridge between the raw, minimalist sports cars of the early 1960s and the heavier, luxury-oriented V12 models that capped off E-Type production in 1974.
Finished in 'Light Primrose Yellow' over a black interior, this matching-numbers UK home-market 1969 example has covered ~82,154 miles across just two previous owners and has remained with its current owner for the last 9 years. Paired with a fully synchronised four-speed manual transmission and benefiting from a complete engine rebuild in 2019, this exceptionally original, well-maintained E-Type boasts impressive provenance, backed by invoices dating back to 1974. It comes complete with two sets of keys, its official Heritage Certificate, and a box of spare parts.
This listing was written from information supplied by Darren after meeting Brian the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.
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Hi please could you tell me the mileage when the engine and clutch were overhauled ? Thank you
Good morning. I don’t have the exact figure but I seem to remember it was at around 78,500 miles. I’ll see if I took a picture of the car dashboard when the engine was out as I took the opportunity to fix things including the ‘difficult to get to’ heater pipes in the front scuttle area.