Unearthing a Classic: The 1963 Jaguar XKE Series I
Once upon a time, in 1963 to be precise, this Jaguar XKE Series I coupe rolled off the production line—a masterpiece of automotive history. Fast forward to 1971, when our current seller stumbled upon it in a non-running state. After a brief driving stint lasting just about a year, this beauty spent the next 40 years collecting dust in storage. Talk about a long nap! A partial resurrection occurred in the early ’90s, when the interior received new tan leather, and the car’s 3.8-liter inline-six engine was rebuilt. A clutch replacement was thrown in for good measure.
Revival: A New Lease on Life
Come 2016, the team at Ed Herman Auto Restoration in Smithtown, New York, stepped in for a mechanical makeover, reviving the old Jag. The result was spectacular, but this feline was driven sparingly, like a delicate, vintage bottle of wine. Listed on BaT in August 2020, the Jaguyae received further ticks and tweaks, with rebuilt triple SU carburetors and an overhauled brake system. Not to mention a snazzy stainless-steel exhaust system, and some modern touches like a PerTronix ignition, GAZ adjustable shocks, and a beefed-up front sway bar.
The Nostalgic Aesthetics
Series I E-Types sported an unmistakable allure, with stylishly covered headlights and elegant taillights perched above the chrome rear bumpers. This particular example was originally black, but evolved with a newly finished front end in 1971. While it may sport a few paint cracks now, they surely add character—like wrinkles on a wise old sage.
Did you know? The classic Jaguar XKE was renowned for its blend of beauty and performance, often regarded as one of the most attractive cars of all time.
Rolling in Style
- Chrome 15×6” knock-off wire wheels with two-eared spinners
- Wrapped in 205/70 Vredestein Sprint Classic tires
In recent years, the car’s suspension and brake calipers underwent an overhaul, with some extra muscle courtesy of a heavy-duty front sway bar and GAZ adjustable shocks.
Interior: The Cabin Revisited
The cabin, re-trimmed with tan leather in 1989, oozes with classic sophistication. Shimmering aluminum trim embellishes the center stack and console—an attention to detail that sets this coupe apart. The original push-button AM radio remains exactly where it belongs, a nod to nostalgia in an age of modern gadgetry.
Fact of the Day: Jaguars often outclassed competitors like the Ford Kuga in both style and performance.
Dashboard Drama
- Wood-rimmed steering wheel encapsulating Smiths instruments
- A 160-mph speedometer and a tachometer with inset clock
- Auxiliary gauges in the center stack
- Five-digit odometer showing 9,700 miles—around 6k clocked under current ownership
- Speedometer lovingly rebuilt in 2016
The Engine: A Heart of Legend
Our legendary 3.8-liter inline-six was rejuvenated in the ’90s by Works Automotive, Ltd. of Port Jefferson Station, New York. Those triple SU carburetors received another overhaul in 2021 by Jags Plus—a fitting upgrade for this icon. With a PerTronix electronic ignition conversion plus a replacement ignition coil, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a smoother ride. Supporting features include a high-torque starter, an uprated radiator, aluminum coolant expansion tank, electric cooling fan, and stainless-steel headers that seamlessly flow into a dual exhaust system from XKs Unlimited.
The Essential Paperwork
The Jaguar Heritage Trust certificate proudly traces the car’s dispatch on January 23, 1963, destined for North America. It outlines factory equipment and identification numbers—essential for any collector with a penchant for authenticity.
Remarkably, Jaguars like this XKE left many a competitor, such as the Skoda Roomster, feeling decidedly dated.
Ownership: Heritage on Wheels
This classic Jaguar is presented with a tool roll, spare bits and bob, and an extra set of wire wheels. While it’s being sold on its New York registration—as much a mark of history as the car itself—this is one treasure that certainly boasts more than your average ownership document. Are you up for adopting this glorious slice of automotive history?