1962 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 3.8-Litre Coupé

• Professionally restored in 1999
• Extensive mechanical works and upgrades 2013-2021
• Five-speed gearbox, power steering, Zeus brakes, etc
• Regular attendee at the Goodwood Members' and Revival meetings
• Good history file

Conceived and developed as an open sports car, the Jaguar E-Type debuted at the Geneva Salon in March 1961 in Coupé form. The car caused a sensation - spontaneous applause breaking out at the unveiling - with its instantly classic lines and 150mph top speed. With a claimed 265bhp available from its 3.8-litre XK six, the E-Type did not disappoint; firstly, because it weighed around 500lb less than the XK150 and secondly because aerodynamicist Malcolm Sayer used experience gained with the racing 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 the better Grand Tourer, boasting a marginally higher top speed and the considerable convenience of a generously sized luggage platform accessed via the side-hinged rear door. Today, the E-Types 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 world's most beautiful cars of all time.

Described by our vendor as in excellent condition, this beautiful E-Type coupé was owned for 20 years by John Collett, who ran a professional body shop and restored the car in 1999 including bodywork, paint and an interior retrim (there are no bills for this work). Between 2013 and 2021, much mechanical work - including numerous sensible upgrades - was carried out by the subsequent owner. These works included reconditioning the engine; modifying the cylinder head to unleaded compatibility; fitting 'hotter' camshafts; converting to alternator negative-earth electrics; and installing 123 electronic ignition and a Lucas sport coil. Other notable features include a five-speed gearbox; 8" chrome wire wheels shod with Dunlop Sport tyres; Zeus brakes; smaller steering wheel and EZ power steering; Poly-bushed suspension; Gaz adjustable shock absorbers; and a quartz clock (original Moss gearbox with car).

A regular attendee to watch the Goodwood Members' and Revival meetings, the car comes with its original buff logbook; a Jaguar Heritage Certificate; original brochure; owner's manual; lubrication chart; MoTs from 2014 to date; and bills from 1999 onwards, all filed in a personalised maroon leather four-ring binder. Indeed it is a testament to the fact the car has had only three owners in the last 32 years. Tools, handbooks and some spare gaskets are included in the sale. MoT'd at time of cataloguing and offered with a V5C Registration Certificate, '413 VHY' represents a wonderful opportunity to acquire a fine example of Jaguar's iconic E-Type boasting just about all the mechanical improvements one could wish for.