Last updated on November 26, 2025
Today’s car is a 1970 Jaguar Series II XKE 2+2 owned by Richard Mathias. I photographed this car at Trancas Country Market, Malibu CA on one of our Bacon Runs. Did you ask what is a Bacon Run? Click HERE to find out. The car is finished in Opalescent Dark Blue with a Biscuit interior. It is powered by a 320 hp 4.2 liter, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) inline 6, with triple SU carburetors, and updated with a 5-Speed Tremec T5 Transmission and Power Lock 3.77:1 rear axle. Slowing this beauty down are four-wheel high performance ventilated disc brakes in all 4-corners. The front independent suspension has upgraded torsion bars and an aftermarket sway bar. The rear independent suspension has upgraded coil springs and Koni dampers are in all 4-corners. The car sits on 15″x7″ Dunlop style aluminum racing wheels that are secured by chrome three-eared knock-offs.
The car went through a color change from red to blue in mid 2000s and had a mechanical restoration that was completed in 2012 by Donovan Motorcar Service. Some of the modifications include a Series I bonnet without front bumper, hand painted racing stripes and Jaguar logos, rebuilt a high performance 4.2 liter engine with 3-Series I SU carburetors, high performance suspension and brakes, a Moto-Lita steering wheel, and a 5 speed T5 transmission.
The Jaguar E-type Series II models were built between 1968 and 1971. The total number of Series II’s built was 18,809 units of those 5,326 were 2+2s and of those 4,286 were Left Hand Drive (LHD). The 2+2 configuration was achieved by adding 2″ higher top for additional head room, and 9″ longer to accommodate the two fully upholstered rear seats and increased luggage space. The MSRP was $5,530-$5,900 depending on options. The published top speed of 134 MPH with a 0-60 mph time of 7.0 Seconds.
This restored and modified Jaguar has a great look and that modified feel. What a great car to take to British and Jaguar car shows, Cars and Coffee events or just a cruising the canyons in the Santa Monica mountains and enjoying drive with a smile on your face. Thank you for riding along. Frank
