E-Type UK, the noteworthy classic sports car's renowned restorer, has completed a comprehensive refurbishment of a prestigious 1964 Series 1 FHC Jaguar E-type, which has been rebuilt to strike a delicate balance of originality and performance.

The Series 1 Jag underwent an intensive restoration process in the experienced hands of E-Type UK's team of experts, with meticulous attention to detail down to the last bolt. Some serious performance improvements on the car carry this sixties icon right through into the twenty-first century.

Overview

This Series 1 fixed-head coupe seen here in the left-hand drive had first been ordered by its original buyer, in this stunning shade of Pearl Grey, with a contrasting Dark Blue leather interior, which was revolutionary, even at the time. Such a  rare combination of colors makes this beautiful Series 1 E-type a truly rare example and is a car that was sourced from the depths of the Norwegian mountains. It took a delicate and subtle touch to appropriately update one of the most iconic British sports cars while, at the same time, remaining loyal to the marque's original goals.

Exterior

To ensure ultimate structural rigidity and chassis strength, the car's restoration process began with a thorough inspection of each body panel for signs of rust. E-Type UK's professional metalwork crafters went to the extent of producing a brand-new floor, sills, transmission tunnel, back chassis, bulkhead, inner and outer rear wings, and a new hood for this specific model. Next, the car underwent the filler process. It involves applying filler to the shell in a precise and detailed manner that ensures millimeter-perfect measurements and panel gaps throughout the body.

Rust inhibitors and multiple coats of high-build primer were also coated onto the bare metal. The shell is primed for hand-painting in the car's unique and original Pearl Grey finish before being sprayed with the first of multiple coats of the eye-catching color. Second, a high-quality clear lacquer was applied to the body with utmost care to achieve the car's gleaming sheen.

Interior

One of the most important steps in the restoration process was thoughtfully reconditioning the interior of this extraordinary Series 1 E-type example. The car's original Dark Blue leather specification has been reproduced with incredible depth of color to perfectly complement the newly painted Pearl Grey exterior, staying true to its heritage.

The retrimmed seats and dashboard uses the highest quality leather and completes the exquisite interior with style and finesse while providing the occupants with a functional and cosseting cabin.

Performance

The E-Type UK team also carried out a complete restoration of the 3.8-liter XK engine after being tasked by the owner with producing unrivaled high performing for the Series 1 Coupe. To improve the performance of the newly installed 3.8-liter engine, E-Type UK engineers installed the bespoke straight-six fuel injection system, which features old school throttle bodies along with concealed fuel injectors. In addition to the EFI system, the E-type's engine bay acquired an electronic ignition, an upgraded alternator, a high torque starter, a crankshaft sensor, an oil catch tank, high and low-pressure fuel pumps, air and coolant temperature sensors, and the removal of the traditional distributor, which is replaced with an upgraded coil pack.

A new 5-speed gearbox was installed, with the original 4-speed gearbox rebuilt for originality. Preservation and modernizing the gearbox, it was critical to retain the car's vintage feel while avoiding any historical drawbacks. A vital component of this Series 1's restoration was a complete rebuild of this unique IRS or Independent Read Suspension system. With these very coveted upgrades finally installed, the IRS unit not only offers the driver more dynamic braking and greater road performance but also lays the groundwork for future minor twists, such as an upgrade to 6-pot brake calipers up front.

Conclusion

With that, the team from Kent in the UK finally completed the near 3500-hour restoration procedure. The final results? Well, the pictures speak for themselves, don't they? The E-Type is one of Jaguar's most significant and iconic sports cars of all time. The attention to detail during the restoration process was staggering. For instance, to achieve the superb exterior finish, the lacquer was hand polished for hours on end. The owner sure can now relive the glory days of yore. With modern underpinnings, this E-Type is a sixties throwback with none of the sixties drawbacks.

Watch the 3.8 L come to life in the clip below