Lot details Registration No: ASW888C Chassis No: 1E20370 Mot Expiry: Oct 2010
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.
Finished in red with black leather upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "good" condition with regard to its engine, four-speed manual gearbox, electrical equipment, bodywork, paintwork and interior trim. Though, he notes that "the driver's door is a bit loose" and "the carpets are shabby". Beginning life as a fixed head coupe, `ASW 888C' is understood to have been professionally converted into a roadster circa thirty years ago. While more recent work has apparently included "an engine overhaul which was carried out in France during August 2005" (circa 4,000 miles ago) and the fitment of "a new clutch, flywheel and ring gear". Riding on wire wheels and sporting a bootlid-mounted luggage rack, this well travelled E-type is offered for sale with assorted invoices and MOT certificate valid until October 2010.
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