3,781cc DOHC Inline 6-Cylinder Engine
Triple SU Carburetors
Approximately 265bhp at 5,800rpm
5-Speed Manual Transmission (see text)
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes

*The 99th left-hand drive E-Type Coupe completed
*Flat floor and welded bonnet louver example
*Nearly $30,000 in recent service
*Subtle upgrades for improved drivability

THE JAGUAR E-TYPE

When introduced at the 1961 Geneva Salon, Jaguar's E-Type stirred passions with its extremely sleek and timeless design backed by staggering performance. The newcomer's design owed much to that of the racing D-Type. Indeed, the E-Type would be one of the last great sports cars developed directly from a successful competition ancestor.

Just as in the D-Type, a monocoque tub formed the main body/chassis structure while a tubular spaceframe extended forwards to support the engine. The latter was the same 3.8-liter, triple-carbureted, 'S' unit first offered as an option on the preceding XK150. With a claimed 265 horsepower on tap, the E-Type's performance furthered the standards set by the preceding XK models: firstly, because it weighed around 500lbs less than the XK150 and secondly because aerodynamicist Malcolm Sayer used experience gained with the D-Type to create one of the most elegant and efficient shapes ever to grace a motor car.

Developed from that of the original XK120 sports car and refined in the racing D-Type, the double wishbone, independent front suspension was mounted on the forward sub frame. At the rear the E-Type's suspension broke new ground for a large-capacity sports car, being independent at a time when most of its major rivals relied on the traditional live rear axle. Dunlop disc brakes were fitted to all four wheels; those at the rear being mounted inboard alongside the differential to reduce un-sprung weight.

Often called the most beautiful production car of all time, the E-Type remains an automotive icon of design, engineering and speed.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This E-Type Coupe is among the first 100 left-hand drive examples produced. Built on October 18, 1961 and dispatched on November 2nd of the same year, it was sent new to Jaguar Cars of New York where it was sent to its first owner, M.L. Beresford. Finished in Opalescent Dark Green over Biscuit hides, the color scheme it retains today, the early history of the car is as yet not well documented.

Known history of the car, based on past descriptions, indicate that the car was purchased by its likely-fifth-from-last owner in 1986. Painted red at the time of purchase, it was described as having been the recipient of a largely cosmetic restoration with the body and chassis both being stripped and rebuilt. Pictures from about 2000 show the car in dark green with a black interior and California black plates. Sold in 2001, it was then given a frame-off restoration that was completed in May of 2005. When the Jaguar was offered again in 2006, it was described as having a mechanical rebuild to the engine, transmission, and clutch along with a freshly retrimmed Connolly leather interior and British Racing Green paint. Selling for thrice what it had fetched in 2001, it headed to Oregon for four years—during which time the engine overhauled again. It was sold again in 2010 and eventually came out East and into the garage of the consignor in 2015.

Since taking ownership of the car, the Jag has been meticulously maintained with over $27,000 in receipts on file. Among the major work completed includes a complete overhaul and rebuild of the suspension and brake systems including the replacement of many wear-related parts, the installation of electronic ignition, overhaul of the steering system, significant repairs to the electrical system, and cosmetic work to the paint and trunk trim.

Showing very nicely today, this early E-Type Coupe is currently fitted with an aluminum radiator and electric fan for improved cooling and a five-speed manual transmission for a better driving experience—especially at high speed. It should be noted that while the stamping on the head matches the chassis plate and is original to the car, there is no number present on the engine block.

Complete with a copy of its Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust Certificate, an owners handbook, and receipts going back to the current owner's purchase, this very early E-Type Coupe would make an excellent entry on any number of 1000 mile tours or a real show stopper at the next Cars and Coffee.