Lot details Registration No: 5680 PP Chassis No: 860201 Mot Expiry: None
Launched at the 1961 Geneva Motor Show the Jaguar E-Type was nothing short of a revelation. With its heady blend of supercar performance, breathtaking styling and low price tag, the newcomer left rivals reeling and customers clamouring. While, early sportscar racing success at the hands of Graham Hill and Roy Salvadori amongst others helped cement its reputation. Built as a monocoque with a front sub-frame to cradle the engine, the model's combination of all-round independent suspension (torsion-bar front / coil-sprung rear) rack and pinion steering and four-wheel disc brakes gave it excellent roadholding and handling capabilities. Fed by triple SU HD8 carburettors and topped with a 'straight port' DOHC cylinder head, its indomitable 3781cc straight-six engine was quoted as developing some 265bhp and 260lbft of torque. Allied to a four-speed Moss gearbox (with synchromesh on 2nd, 3rd and 4th), it reputedly enabled the E-type to sprint from 0-60mph in 6.9 seconds and onto 150mph. Achingly beautiful yet viciously quick, the E-type remains for many the ultimate production Jaguar.
This particular 'matching numbers' example was reportedly treated to an extensive 'nut and bolt' restoration to show standards in the early '90s, including: thoroughly overhauled engine, gearbox and running gear; all new outer body panels and conversion from Fixed Head to Roadster by Martin Robey; new upholstery by Suffolk and Turley. It subsequently achieved a string of concours successes and appeared on Top Gear's 'The Car's The Star' E-Type TV special and in Practical Classics magazine. Purchased by the vendor from Henry Pearman at Eagle E-Types in 1997, the car continued to be used primarily for shows, and was also featured in the October 1997 edition of Classic Cars. Though little exercised in recent years, it has always been garaged in a dehumidified environment. It's finished in opalescent silver blue with dark blue trim and apparently comes complete with correct tool kit, jack and a detailed history file including: heritage certificate, restoration photographs and invoices. Described by the vendor as being in "excellent" condition with regard to its engine, gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim, bodywork and paintwork, '5680 PP' is expected to have a new MOT by the time of the sale.
PLEASE NOTE: This lot does not have a current MOT certificate. It failed a recent test due to faults with its handbrake and rear brakes. A copy of the fail sheet is included with the history file as is a recent invoice totalling circa £370 for work done to the front brakes and a fuel system flush.
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