Footnotes

Jaguar would make a habit of shocking the automotive world. Sometimes the impact of its cars reached beyond the showrooms and exposition halls to rock popular culture, yet not even Jaguar's founder, Sir William Lyons, could have predicted the impact of the Jaguar E-Type.

When introduced at the 1961 Geneva Salon, the new Jaguar stirred passions with its extremely sleek and timeless design backed by staggering performance. Constructed using methods derived from the D-Type sports racing car, the E-Type was a technical marvel. The light and rigid monocoque chassis used the engine itself as a structural part of the car, with the long and sleek bonnet hinged at the front. The headlights were beautifully recessed in the fenders, and covered with contoured Perspex for a free flowing design and improved aerodynamics. The car featured 4-wheel independent suspension, disc brakes all around and a 4-speed manual transmission. The proven XK power plant was carried over from the XK150 and made sure the lithe Jaguar would exceed the 150mph mark.

1966 gained an additional 2+2 Coupé variant on a 9" longer wheelbase. Intended to extend the E-Type's appeal beyond the traditional sports car-buying market, the new 'family orientated' 2+2 came with improved visibility thanks to an increased glass area, more headroom, improved heating and ventilation, additional luggage space and optional Borg-Warner automatic transmission.

Often called the most beautiful production car of all time, the E-Type remains an automotive icon of design, engineering and speed. With spare parts readily available, a number of marquee clubs to join and many driving and concours events to attend, the E-Type is an excellent collector car.

This beautiful Opalescent Silver Blue E-Type was produced at Jaguar's Browns Lane Works near the very end of 1966, as a factory left hand drive example in the newly introduced 2+2 Coupe version. This very car was among the first 900 2+2 Coupe examples completed, therefore build in the pure Series I form, featuring the desirable Series I E-Type body and interior details, such as the covered headlights, delicate taillights mounted above the rear bumpers, and classic toggle switches on the dashboard. Featuring the larger 4.2-Litre engine and a manual 4-speed fully synchronized gearbox, the new E-Type was destined for the US-market, where it would have been delivered to the lucky new owner in 1967. The Series I E-Type would later migrate to Germany, before being acquired by the current Swiss owner, a discerning collector of classic European sports cars, and noted international Ferrari judge and restorer.

Today, this classic E-Type presents in beautiful condition inside and out. Stunning chrome and brightwork sparkles along the breathtaking and factory-correct Opalescent Silver Blue exterior paint, while the elegant chrome wire wheels are shod on period-correct Dunlop tires. The tidy engine compartment retains factory correct finishes throughout, and most importantly, the matching numbers engine (both cylinder head and engine block) remains in situ. Breathing through the original triple SU carburetor setup, the 4.2-Litre engine offers plenty of power to propel the smart 2+2 Coupe down the road, while fully independent suspension and disc brakes in all four corners offers excellent handling and breaking capabilities for spirited driving.

The roomy cockpit is trimmed in black leather hides, and a classic Blaupunkt radio is appropriately situated in the dashboard, alongside the original wood rimmed steering wheel. The boot retains a matching spare wheel, knock-off hammer, as well as an owner's manual and lubrication chart. Recent mechanical refurbishments include installment of a new clutch, along with a comprehensive brake system service.

This pure Series I, factory left hand drive, early production 2+2 Coupe is considered the most desirable version of the roomier 2+2 E-Type, retaining the original configuration of covered headlights, more stylish and delicate taillights, and toggle switch dashboard. With room for a small family, some extra luggage or the dog in the back, this Series I E-Type deserves serious consideration.

Please note that if this vehicle remains within Monaco or France, the reduced rate of Import VAT at 5.5% will be applicable on the hammer price. All customs charges will be invoiced and collected directly by our customs agent, Benaim. Please note that if you purchase as an EU Company, the VAT amount will be calculated based on your registered country's rate and paid directly there. Import rates to other EU Countries may vary and an administration fee will be charged to prepare the necessary customs clearances. If you have any questions regarding customs clearance, please contact the Bonhams Motorcar Department or our recommended shippers.