Lot details Registration No: Eu-Reg Chassis No: 879000 Mot Expiry: None
Famously launched at the 1961 Geneva Motor Show, the Jaguar E-Type created a furore. Its combination of supercar performance, superb styling and a low price tag 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 low-slung two-seater to sprint from 0-60mph in 6.9 seconds and onto 150mph.
Seemingly borrowed from a light aircraft, the wonderful turned aluminium centre console that adorned its dashboard was complemented by scalloped 'Dunlopillo' seats and a wood-rim steering wheel. While any E-type roadster is desirable, the lithesome free-revving 3.8 litre cars enjoy a particularly exalted status. Dating from early in the production cycle before Jaguar responded to popular demand for greater comfort and refinement, they arguably represent the automotive icon in its purest form.
According to its accompanying Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust Certificate, this particular left-hand drive example - chassis 879000 - was manufactured on 31st January 1963 and supplied new to Belgium. Originally finished in Carmen Red with a Black soft-top, it has only recently returned to the UK and indeed is said to have been licensed for everyday use in Belgium up until 22nd February 2011.
The subject of a multi-year `ground up' restoration that began in 1994, the E-type is accompanied by copious invoices from suppliers such as Martin Robey, Heuten Autoersatzteile GmbH, All-Parts and R.M. & J. Smith. Overseen by Garage Wolters of Glimes, the rejuvenation process saw attention paid to the Roadster's bodyshell, engine, suspension, brakes, steering, back axle, interior and electrics etc.
As well as being upgraded with a performance exhaust and Kenlowe fan during 2005, the Jaguar had its cooling system (radiator, thermostat, cooling fan) and carburettors overhauled some two years later. Believed but not warranted to have covered just 7,300 kilometres (circa 4,500 miles) since the refurbishment was completed, the open two-seater is described by the vendor as being in "excellent" condition with regard to its engine, four-speed manual gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim, bodywork and paintwork.
The E-type celebrates its fiftieth anniversary this year and interest in the model is arguably at an all time high. Seemingly ready to enjoy and ideally suited to Continental motoring, chassis 879000 is offered for sale at a fraction of what a comparable professional restoration would cost today.
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