ROAD TEST

August 13, 2024 – Published in Design & Decor Spring-Summer 2024 issue

Grace, Space & Pace - Jaguar

Words Keith Riddington

The Jaguar E-Type, also known as the Jaguar XK-E, is a legendary sports car that has left an indelible mark on automotive history. Here’s a brief overview of its story and history…

The Jaguar E-Type was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1961. Its sleek and futuristic design captivated the automotive world, instantly establishing it as an icon of automotive design. Enzo Ferrari even famously described it as “the most beautiful car ever made.” 

Design and Engineering

The E-Type was designed by Malcolm Sayer, an aerodynamicist, and is widely considered one of the most beautiful cars ever created. Its long hood, low stance, and distinctive curves made it an instant classic. The car’s design was heavily influenced by Jaguar’s successful D-Type racing car, incorporating aerodynamic principles for both performance and aesthetics. 

Underneath its stunning exterior, the E-Type featured cutting-edge engineering. It boasted independent suspension, disc brakes, and a monocoque construction, making it not only beautiful but also advanced in terms of performance and handling. 

Performance

Powered by a 3.8-litre inline-six engine initially, later upgraded to a 4.2-litre version, the E-Type delivered impressive performance for its time. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 km/h) in around 7 seconds and had a top speed of over 150 mph (241 km/h), making it one of the fastest production cars of its era. 

Evolution

In 1971, Jaguar introduced the Series 3 E-Type, which featured a larger 5.3-litre V12 engine. While some purists lamented the move away from the iconic inline-six, the V12 offered even smoother performance and refinement. 

Legacy

The E-Type’s combination of stunning design, cutting-edge engineering, and impressive performance ensured its place in automotive history. It remains highly sought-after by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. Its timeless design continues to inspire automotive designers, and it is often cited as one of the greatest cars ever made. 

Impact

Beyond its influence on automotive design and engineering, the E-Type also played a role in shaping the cultural landscape of the 1960s. It was a symbol 

of style, sophistication, and the jet-set lifestyle, embraced by celebrities, racing drivers, and enthusiasts alike. 

In summary, the Jaguar E-Type is not just a car; it’s a symbol of automotive excellence, timeless design, and the spirit of innovation that defined an era. 

The car on display is a 1962 Series 1 flat-floor Roadster powered by a 3.8-litre engine. 

The car has been fully restored with over 2500 hours spent on the project; no effort was spared, reflecting the worldwide-recognised highest Jaguar quality restoration standards—effectively making it a much superior car than the initial factory standard. 

It now sports with full leather trim, floor and bulkhead heat and sound deadening materials, modern quality rust inhibitor, paint, LED instrument backlighting as well as highest-quality Bluetooth hands-free phone and sound system (driven via smart phone App). 

A full list of upgrades is provided separately but especially worth mentioning is the latest electronic 123 ignition, power-steering, 5-speed Guy Broad gearbox, Mahle race pistons, upgraded cabin heater system and lightweight power starter motor, stainless steel exhaust, and numerous suspension enhancements for greater ride comfort and race safety. 

Chrome wire wheels, 15-inch wooden steering wheel, aluminium radiator with upgraded electric fan and cowl assembly, green tint windscreen, power alternator, braided oil pipes, rear crankshaft oil seal conversion and adjustable suspension now give the car maximum reliability and driving safety and comfort.  

Test driven with over 500 shakedown miles, this car is ready for performance or comfort cruising use.

This is a rare RHD roadster and a stunning example of one of the most iconic and beautiful cars ever to be designed. 

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