Lot details Registration No: See Text Chassis No: IE1871 Mot Expiry: None
One of the great motoring icons of the last century, Jaguar's E-type is a car that has always inspired loyalty and devotion. Born out of the fabulous D-type racer, it soon acquired a strong competition heritage of its own. Faster and more glamorous than virtually any production rivals, the newcomer put many so-called 'sportscars' to shame at its 1961 Geneva Motor Show launch. Certainly few could live with the model's reputed 150mph top speed or the savage acceleration that allowed it to touch 60mph in less than seven seconds. In an age when a decent family saloon could call upon its engine for 65bhp, the E-type's 3781cc, DOHC, straight-six claimed an additional 200bhp. While Ferrari's lauded 250 SWB and its 250 GTO successor made do with 'live' rear axles, the E-type utilised a sophisticated independent rear set-up with inboard disc brakes. Rack and pinion steering enabled a driver to make the most of the monocoque chassis's excellent roadholding and handling, putting it light years ahead of American designs like the Corvette. Revised in 1964, the E-type gained a torquier 4235cc powerplant and improved all-synchromesh four-speed gearbox of Jaguar's own design. Modified to meet upcoming legislative requirements, the so-called 'Series 1½' cars began to appear from September 1967 onwards (just 319 right-hand drive 'Series 1½' roadsters are thought to have been made).
The right-hand drive 'Series 1½' E-Type 4.2 Roadster now for sale, was apparently a personal export example ordered from Mizzi Brothers of Malta in July 1967 by a Mr Pinolta. Originally Sand in colour, the coachwork was changed to the current Metallic Blue shortly after the car's arrival in Malta, where it remained until returning to the UK in August 1989 - apparently still in good, rust-free condition. The vendor acquired the Jaguar at auction two years later. This tidy-looking E-Type is offered complete with original Maltese log book and current Isle of Man registration papers.
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