1965 Jaguar XKE Series I 4.2 Roadster

THE MODEL

The 1965 Jaguar E-Type (XKE) Series 1 4.2-Litre Roadster is one of the defining British sports cars of the 1960s, combining dramatic Malcolm Sayer styling with serious performance and remarkable long-distance usability.

Introduced for the 1965 model year, the 4.2-liter XK inline-six replaced the earlier 3.8-liter engine. While peak output remained around 265 hp, the larger engine delivered substantially more torque and was paired with a fully synchronized four-speed manual transmission, making the car considerably easier to drive in everyday conditions.

Visually, the Series 1 is distinguished by its long, low bonnet, covered headlamps, small grille opening, and faired-in rear lights. The open two-seat roadster—known in the U.S. as the XKE—has particularly pure proportions, with its folding soft top stowed beneath the rear deck.

The 4.2-liter cars also brought important interior improvements, including more comfortable seats, better instrumentation, and a more practical center console. Braking remained by four-wheel disc brakes, with the rear brakes mounted inboard, while independent suspension at both ends contributed to the E-Type's celebrated combination of handling and ride quality.

The 1965 model year is especially significant because it represents the early 4.2-liter Series 1 specification, before later Series 1 changes such as the larger open grille and exposed headlamps. As a result, a well-preserved 1965 4.2 roadster combines the desirable mechanical improvements of the 4.2 with the particularly elegant early Series 1 appearance.

THE CAR

This 1965 Jaguar XKE Series I roadster was acquired by the original owner from Imperial Motors of Wilmette, Illinois, on June 19, 1965, and spent time in Chicago before being relocated to Solvang, California. After reaching 10k miles. chassis 1E10887 was placed into storage for approximately five decades until the father's passing. 

His sons had over $17k of recommissioning work performed at British Sports Cars of San Luis Obispo, California, in 2024. Now showing 11k miles, the car is finished in Opalescent Dark Green and features covered headlights, a black soft top, and black leather–trimmed seats. Power is from a 4.2-liter inline-six equipped with triple SU carburetors, while shifting is through a four-speed manual transmission linked with a limited-slip differential.

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