Way back in 1961 Jaguar released the E-type which stunned the world with it’s graceful looks and swift performance at the Geneva Motor Show. The E-type’s 240+km/h performance and style attracted notable owners like Steve McQueen, George Best, Sir Jackie Stewart, Brigitte Bardot and Frank Sinatra while on the track it was piloted to success by Graham Hill, Jackie Stewart, Roy Salvadori and Briggs Cunningham. And now, 56 years later, the E-type is set to be sold again through Jaguar Classic with an initial batch of 10 as new E-type’s available.
Tim Hannig, Director, Jaguar Land Rover Classic, said: “The launch of E-type Reborn is a hugely exciting development for Jaguar Classic. The E-type is the most iconic sports car of all time, so we are delighted to be able to give new life to expertly selected examples for discerning customers around the world to own and enjoy.”
“The resources and information available to Jaguar Classic’s expert technicians are unrivalled, which results in the most authentic E-type restorations possible.”
The first E-type to undergo the comprehensive restoration process to 1960’s factory specification is an Opalescent Gunmetal Grey Series 1 4.2 Fixed Head Coupe that was initially exported to California in May of 1965 where it recorded 125,000 kilometer’s before undergoing storage in 1983. It’s an original matching numbers body shell specimen with original completely rebuilt engine and gearbox by technicians at Jaguar Classic.
Collaborating with the Jaguar Heritage Trust allows access to build records and original drawings which means the team at Jaguar Classic can restore every possible detail back to as new factory condition for absolute authenticity. Safety critical componentry is upgraded with parts from Jaguar Classic Parts while reverse engineered body panels are fitted with the same spot welding process used from the original factory. Several upgrades are provided from the series two E-type at no cost by Jaguar Classic in the form of improved cooling, an all synchromesh gearbox and series two front brake calipers.
The Jaguar E-type’s original factory specifications are as follows:
- Originally produced: 1961-1968 (Series 1)
- Engine: 265bhp, 3781cc or 4235cc, in-line six-cylinder petrol
- Transmission: 4-speed manual, rear-wheel drive
- Brakes: Servo-assisted discs front and rear
- Top speed: 150mph (241 km/h)
- 0-60mph: 7sec
The first E-type Reborn available from Jaguar Classic will be launched at the Techno-classica Essen Show in Germany this month with pricing starting at $470,000+ AUD.
