1966 Jaguar E-Type Series I 4.2 Coupe

4,235cc DOHC Inline 6-Cylinder Engine
3 Weber Carburetors
265bhp at 5,400rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes

*Desirable, fully evolved Series I, covered headlight example
*Well-preserved E-Type, with lovely original interior and original documentation
*Delivered new to Pasadena, California
*Retains matching-numbers 4.2-Liter engine


THE JAGUAR E-TYPE

Introduced in 3.8-liter form in 1961, the Jaguar E-Type (XKE in the USA) caused a sensation when it appeared, with instantly classic lines and 150mph top speed. While, inevitably, the car's stupendous straight-line performance and gorgeous looks grabbed the headlines, there was a lot more to the E-Type beneath the skin.

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-carburetor, 'S' unit first offered as an option on the preceding XK150. With a claimed 265 horsepower on tap, the E-Type's performance did not disappoint: firstly, because it weighed around 500lb 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. Aerodynamically, the Coupé was superior to the Roadster and a more accomplished Grande Routière, enjoying a marginally higher top speed and the considerable convenience of a generously sized luggage platform accessed via the side-hinged rear door.

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 that supported the engine. 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.

Its engine aside, only in terms of its transmission did the E-Type represent no significant advance over the XK150, whose durable four-speed Moss gearbox it retained. The latter was replaced when the 4.2-liter engine was introduced on the Series 1 in October 1964, a more user-friendly all-synchromesh gearbox and superior Lockheed brake servo forming part of the improved specification together with the bigger, torquier engine. Apart from '4.2' badging, the car's external appearance was unchanged, but under the skin there were numerous detail improvements, chiefly to the electrical and cooling systems, and also to the seating arrangements. Top speed remained unchanged at around 150mph, the main performance gain resulting from the larger engine being improved flexibility.

Today, the E-Type's graceful lines live on in modern Jaguar sports cars, and there can be little doubt that William Lyons' sublime creation would feature in any knowledgeable enthusiast's 'Top Ten' of the most beautiful cars of all time. Indeed, even Enzo Ferrari felt obliged to concede that the E-type was 'the most beautiful car ever made'.


THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This beautiful Series I E-Type Coupe was finished at Jaguar's Coventry works during the fall of 1966, benefiting from the upgraded, fully synchronized manual transmission and the larger 4.2-liter XK engine. It was built just like it appears today, a left-hand drive covered headlight Coupe model, most likely painted black over the black interior. Like many E-Types, this car was destined for the United States.

According to the original manufacturer's warranty card issued for this car and signed in period, Jaguar E-Type Coupe chassis no. 1E33597 was sold new by Peter Satori Motors of Pasadena, California, on December 24th, 1966 - quite a lovely Christmas present indeed - to a John S. Turnbridge of Pasadena, California. Further records in the service and maintenance book shows the Jaguar would be serviced by Satori Motors in the late 1960s. The black E-Type is believed to have remained in California for many years, and kept it in largely original cosmetic condition, bar a repaint at some stage. Inside, the black leather interior is beautifully worn-in with great patina and believed to be mostly original. The classic wood-rimmed steering wheel is in situ, as are the first series toggle switches and original smith gauges.

Original books and manuals in pouch are accompanying the Jaguar, including a correct comprehensive tool roll, jack and knock-off tool. Chrome wire wheels with Michelin X thin red-line tires are fitted, giving the E-Type Coupe its classic and clean look. Overall, the car shows a tasteful amount of patina in and out. While maintaining functionality and operating order, it performed very well on a recent test drive. Powered by the large 4.2 liter inline 6 that the car was delivered with new, this E-Type is equipped with the 4-speed manual fully synchronized transmission and upgraded Weber carburetors. Handling is provided by 4-wheel independent suspension that was so successful for Jaguar that they continued to use the same geometry for years of production with continual successful motorsports pedigree. This lovely, well-kept E-Type is offered from a prominent Reno-based collection of sophisticated sports cars and deserves serious consideration.