This Jaguar XKE is not just a car – it’s a cherished companion that has been with its original owner from the moment he drove it off the dealership lot in 1969 until 2016, when he decided it was time to pass the torch to someone who would continue to appreciate it. The story behind this car is as unique as the car itself, with a personal connection that stretches over nearly five decades. In May of 1969, Charles F. of New Jersey decided he wanted a sports car. Initially, he put down a deposit for a new third-generation Corvette, but due to a labor dispute at the factory in St. Louis, Missouri, delays led him to reconsider his choice. After waiting over a month, he requested his deposit back. Inspired by a photo of Cher in an XKE, he made his way to a small dealership in Madison, New Jersey, known for selling Chryslers, Plymouths, and Jaguars. There, he placed a deposit for a Jaguar XKE, opting for a specific set of features. Despite initially desiring one of three colors—Ascot Fawn, Beige, or Regency Red—the dealer presented him with a Willow Green model. Though he had not seen the color in person, he agreed to purchase it. Before picking up the car, Charles received a crash course in driving a manual transmission from a friend using a VW Beetle. On May 21, 1969, he paid for the car in cash and took delivery of his new Jaguar. While he was smitten by the car, Charles had a few modifications in mind. He requested chrome wire wheels, whitewall tires, backlit heater controls, and a protective glaze finish. Additionally, he chose not to have a radio installed, preferring to enjoy the sound of the engine, and requested the dealership omit its usual appliqué plaque. For the next few years, this Jaguar served as his daily driver, until 1973 when he limited his use to weekends. Twenty years later, he had the car fully restored, both cosmetically and mechanically, and continued to enjoy it until 2016. The car is in excellent condition after nearly 30 years since its restoration. The paint and trim still shine, and the bodywork is straight and solid, with the rear cargo area boasting fresh weather seals and a well-maintained floor. The wraparound chrome bumpers fit tightly and look fantastic. This Jaguar rides on Pirelli P4000 radials, size 205/70R15, all mounted on the original chrome wire wheels Charles had requested. The wheels are in good condition, and the tires are in very good shape. Under the hood is a 4.2L DOHC straight-six engine, paired with a four-speed manual transmission with synchromesh on all gears. This powertrain delivers the thrilling driving experience Jaguar enthusiasts love. Inside, the luxurious Biscuit Connolly Leather seats remain in excellent condition, complemented by darker Wilton Wool carpeting and a matching headliner. The black dashboard is in great shape for its age, and the inner door panels, also in Biscuit, look fantastic. A wood-rimmed, three-spoke steering wheel completes the interior, ready for many more adventures on the open road. The Series 2 XKE introduced several key design changes, primarily driven by U.S. National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration mandates. The most notable of these is the absence of the glass headlight covers, a feature that was also applied globally to other imported cars, including the Citroën DS. Other changes include a wrap-around rear bumper, larger front indicators, repositioned taillights below the bumpers, and an enlarged grille with twin electric fans to improve cooling. This Jaguar XKE represents not just a classic British sports car, but a piece of history with an incredible personal connection. Whether you’re looking to continue the journey with this cherished vehicle or simply add a stunning example of Jaguar engineering to your collection, this car is an opportunity you won’t want to miss.