Found some photos (ie hard copy prints) of my late dad’s old ‘65 3.8 Manuel S-Type today. Delighted as I didn’t think I had any images of it!
Car was about 25yrs old when these were taken - just after he got it - as some are with the modern white/yellow plates as opposed to the black/silver ones I got him at his next birthday.
I was too young to get on the insurance for years, but after losing interest and taking it off road for 2-3 solar cycles he got it roadworthy for our wedding. We took it up North for a few days before we went off on foreign honeymoon - which was just awesome. Such an event to drive and people waved and flashed constantly. Detuned e-type engine with limited silencing - the XK straight6 makes a great range of sounds. Independent rear axle and 4-wheel disc brakes that the more desirable MkII didn’t have, so it was actually a better drive. Box was only a 4-speed, but separately activated overdrive on 3rd and 4th meant loads of shifting fun. Massive sliding Webasto roof was a rare option that added an extra element too.
He garaged it as soon as we got home - never drove it again - and it deteriorated badly without use. Clutch and brakes locked on, lots of rust coming through, and unloved leather developed some cracks. When he decided he wanted it no more I had no money or space to take it on - and it needed loads of work. If he’d offered it to me earlier I would have been in the same situation, so no point whining about what might have been - it just couldn’t have happened.
Look back with great fondness.