Saturday, January 5, 2013

Right Now in GA: 1969 Jaguar XKE


Every now and then, we’ll take a look at a classic Eurocar that might not fit the strictest interpretation of what a ‘supercar’ is.

They will still be bonkers. Like this one:

For sale in South Georgia right now is this beautiful 1969 Jaguar XKE, for $45,000. This is the classic Jag – in red, no less.

The XKE ranks highly alongside the crème de la crème of Eurcars, and with a respectable mileage of 43,000 showing on the odometer, this one looks to be a fine example of the iconic British motorcar.
The car, located in Valdosta, Georgia, is a convertible with black leather that looks all in order, I’d say.

I’d also be tempted to say that she looks like she purrs, but I’m betting she growls.

The Allure

This XKE is a shining example of the first-year of the Series 2, as evident in its uncovered headlights. The US version of the ’69 XKE had its engine dumbed down compared with the version that shipped in the UK. The UK version also had cool toggle switches on the dash, though the US version had rocker pots.

Air conditioning and power steering were offered as factory options, but we are unsure if this XKE benefits from those add-ons (but we’re willing to be that AC is sans on this convertible).

The XKE is a rather iconic model in Jaguar’s history. The car is often cited alongside the utterly enviable Aston Martin DB5 as being among the greatest cars to ever come from a factory in Great Britain.

The Disclaimer

The great flaw of the E-type Jags of the 70s would have to be the starter. The darn things just don’t want to turn over. There are many aftermarket upgrades to address this issue, and we can only hope that this XKE in Georgia has had its starting system overhauled.  Otherwise, get ready for lots of pounding your fists on the steering wheel.

The Conclusion

She’s a thing a beauty, and a clean one at that. At $45k this classic Jag is within reach of many. It’s an example of English automotive royalty – long live the Jag!




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