Some cars need no introduction and the Jaguar E-Type is no exception. The Series II Jaguar E-Types that were produced from 1969 to 1971 can be identified by their open headlights that no longer had glass covers, a wrap-around rear bumper, repositioned and larger front indicators that moved to underneath the heavier bumpers, the tail lights also moved below the rear bumper. The cooling was much improved helped by the enlarged ‘mouth'. Series II cars also feature twin electric fans and uprated brakes. The engine is easily identified visually by the change from smooth polished cam covers to a ribbed appearance yet the original triple SU carburettors remain. The interior and dashboard were also redesigned, with flick switches being substituted by rocker switches to meet U.S regulations.

Presented in its original colour scheme of Regency Red with a Black leather interior, this manual left-hand drive car sports chrome wire wheels and factory air conditioning. This car was delivered new to its first owner, a Dr Phyliss and Charles Butler on 12th September 1970, from Encinitas, California, USA, who in turn sold it on 29th October 1974, to a F.W. Steinberger, who kept the car until his death in 2014. Mr Steinberger was President and Chief Concours Judge of the Jaguar Club of North America for many years, cementing his enthusiasm for the marque further.

In 1997 Mr Steinberger felt that car would benefit from some attention, and being a concours judge no expense was spared in terms of parts or workmanship on a thorough restoration. The car was entrusted to Jaguar marque specialist ‘More Than Just Cars' of Upland, California to carry out the work, which is recorded photographically in the history file. The glass, chrome, rubber and interior were all removed, so that the car could be stripped back to bare metal, before being etch primed and refinished in its original colour of Regency Red. At the same time, all the chrome was replated and window rubbers renewed. The interior was treated to a retrim which included new seat foam, door panels, carpets, dash top pad and a new headlining. A smaller steering wheel was also fitted to alleviate any acrobatics that usually have to be performed when getting in and out of an E-Type!

The car sits on four brand new Dayton wire wheels which are clad with Michelin 185 x HR15 XVS radial tyres. The car still retains its fifth chrome wire wheel and factory Dunlop spare which remains in mint condition, as well as retaining its original pair of yellow and blue Californian license plates and pink slip from 1974. It's a well-loved and maintained car which reflects in the current mileage of 99,000 miles which is believed original mileage according to Mr Steinberger's heirs.

The car was also used in many promotional videos and at events, the last being the premiere in Las Vegas of the movie The Mechanic , where the car was driven onto the red carpet by Jason Statham!

Overall, one would be hard pushed to find a better Series II FHC, with an enviable two owner Californian history from new, with the last owner being the custodian for the past four decades.

Offered here in its original colours, and with its owners operating manual and warranty booklets in their original Jaguar pouch, this car represents very good value as the cost of E-Type restorations continues to soar. Please note that this vehicle is currently being registered with the DVLA as a UK car in readiness for the auction.