2011-06-02 22:34:04 | Kiwi John writes:

Offered for sale in the UK for 50,000 UK Pounds.

The last owner purchased the car as a Rolling Restoration in 1985 from another enthusiast who had acquired the car some 5 years previously with the intention of restoring it but had done very little apart from purchasing 4 new wings and 2 doors. Fortunately there were still a few original factory parts floating about at Jaguar Dealers at this time at original prices. If one was to source the same body parts today from one of the few specialist suppliers they would have to be handmade and would cost over £30,000 for the same units.

The new owner first erected a garage alongside his house in which to rebuild the Jaguar and then set about restoring it to its former glory. Firstly, the body was removed from the chassis and the transmission, steering, brakes, suspension were thoroughly overhauled and replaced, where necessary, with new components, The chassis was sound and only required stripping and painting. The engine was completely dismantled, rebored to +30 thou, crank re-ground and reassembled. It is now indicating textbook oil pressure and will require running in by the new owner. A new high performance alloy radiator was fitted along with electric fan to enhance engine cooling.

The new body panels for front and rear wings and doors were fitted. The alloy bonnet and boot are period items which have been refurbished. Elsewhere, new hand-made metal sections were fabricated to replace corroded areas and only lead solder was used for repairs. The bare-metal body was then painted in British Racing Green to high professional standard.

New Guy Broads interior in Cream Leather with matching trim and carpets. Brand new Walnut Burr veneered woodwork with glass-like finish. Major bright work components re-plated and 4 new knock-on chrome wire wheels fitted.

By the time the big Cat finally emerged from the specially-built garage an incredible twenty five years had elapsed, making this one of the most protracted re-builds in automotive history. Sadly due to poor health the patient, methodical restorer was only able to enjoy his creation for a mere 20 miles of local driving. So it will be for a new owner to inherit this beautiful Jaguar Motorcar and give it the attention it richly deserves.

The cost of such a comprehensive rebuild in today's world is incalculable but suffice to say that it is far in excess of the price being asked.

Supplied with Tools, Owner's Manual, Workshop Manual, Photographic record of the rebuild, Registration Log Book (dated 1969) V5, Current MOT, Heritage Certificate and Historic Road Tax.

An interesting footnote is that when produced this car was transferred to a Mr Walker of the Jaguar advertising Department, so it may be an ex factory show car.

2021-11-30 01:18:57 | Bill Bletcher writes:

Hi

Dad had this car from approx 1961 - 1963. I recall Dad selling the car to a fellow called Nigel as we were moving to Hong Kong.