The Jaguar Classic department has detailed the one-off 1965 E-Type Roadster, which has been meticulously restored and made an appearance in the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Pageant last weekend as part of Jaguar Land Rover’s 26-vehicle parade.

The bespoke model is a special commission by a customer who was born in 1965 and wanted an E-Type Roadster from the same year. Thus, Jaguar Classic sourced a vehicle that was produced two days after the customer’s birthday and worked on it for a full year. The exterior is characterized by the unique deep metallic blue inspired by the Union Jack, which took several months to perfect. Other than this it remains standard with bright chrome bumpers and classic wire wheels, although the lighting units have been enhanced with LED technology.

 

True to the heritage of the E-type, the interior trim was inspired by British pillar boxes, featuring hand-finished red leather upholstery, a wooden steering wheel and a metal center console. The model has been retrofitted with the Classic Infotainment system bringing touchscreen, navigation and Bluetooth connectivity without running the period-correct looks. This unit, which debuted in the E-Type 60 Collection Editions last year, is available for all E-Type owners who would like a tech upgrade for their classic car. Finally, there is a special plaque on the dashboard, proving that this is not your typical restored E-Type.

Under the bonnet, there is a 4.7-liter straight-six engine that has been enlarged from the stock 4.2-liter unit for improved performance. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels through a five-speed gearbox that is offering a “quieter and more refined driving experience” according to Jaguar Classic. The company has also updated the suspension and the brakes and fitted wider wheels for better handling. Finally, the new sports exhaust and manifold deliver a richer sound. The special E-Type was one of the 15 Jaguar models featured in the Platinum Jubilee Pageant, where it was driven by the owner, sitting next to dancer, model, and fashion designer Eric Underwood who occupied the passenger seat.