2026-06-17 13:34:56 | pauls writes:

Car at auction 6/26

bhauction.com/en/auction/tokyo-06-21-at-city-circuit-tokyo-bay/lots/1964-vicarag ...

TOKYO 06.21 at City Circuit Tokyo Bay

LOT NUMBER57

1964 VICARAGE JAGUAR E-TYPE 4.2 Roadster

Full restoration by Vicarage (UK) in May 1990

Comprehensively upgraded for modern drivability

Interior retrimmed in leather

New shock absorbers

Upgraded to a 5-speed manual transmission

Based on a 1964 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 4.2 Roadster, this example underwent a meticulous full restoration by Vicarage—one of the UK’s most renowned Jaguar specialists—followed by a series of mechanical and chassis upgrades to deliver a more modern and refined driving experience.

The engine has been replaced with a 4.2-liter unit from the XJ6 Series III, produced from the late 1970s to the mid-1980s, offering 205 hp and noticeably stronger performance than the original. The transmission has also been upgraded from the factory 4-speed to a 5-speed manual, enhancing both drivability and long-distance comfort.

Additional performance-focused updates include ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, suspension tuning, and wider wire wheels capable of accommodating high-grip, wide-profile tires—maintaining the classic aesthetic while significantly improving capability.

Vicarage, together with the UK’s Beecham and New Zealand’s Heritage, is regarded as one of the “Big Three” in the Jaguar restoration world. The company is especially known for high-quality modernized conversions such as this example.

This particular car was originally commissioned by Hajime Tanaka, known as the owner of the TI Aida Circuit (now Okayama International Circuit), and was first registered in Japan in July 1990.

Later, under the care of a prominent Japanese collector—renowned both as an enthusiast and classic car builder—the car received further refinements. These include returning the tappet cover to its period-correct specification and replacing Vicarage’s four-pipe exhaust with a dual-pipe layout that echoes the original aesthetic. These details reflect a deep, discerning appreciation for the model’s heritage.

Finished in elegant Burgundy with beige hide, the car also comes with a hardtop.

The interior has been fully retrimmed in matching leather by the current owner, restoring it to beautiful condition. New shock absorbers have been fitted as well, making this E-Type immediately ready for comfortable, enjoyable driving.

A rare opportunity to acquire a tastefully modernized yet faithfully restored E-Type—combining the romance of a 1960s icon with the usability required for everyday classic motoring.