![CDATA[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. 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, it reputedly enabled the low-slung two-seater to sprint from 0-60mph in 6.9 seconds and onto 150mph. While any E-Type Roadster is desirable, the lithesome free-revving 3.8 litre cars enjoy a particularly exalted status; however, the later Series I, 4.2 litre was considered a better engine. Benefitting from an all synchromesh gearbox and more comfortable seats together with improved brakes more in keeping with the advertised top speed, the 4.2 litre was a far better product and much easier to live with on a daily basis.
First registered on 13th October 1966, this Jaguar was restored in 1994 and has been owned by the vendor since August 2002. The original specification was red and automatic transmission, during the restoration the body colour was changed to Gunmetal Grey and a manual gearbox appears to have been fitted a number of years prior to the restoration. Two history folders accompany this E-Type confirming she has been a very well maintained and much loved car. A new set of stainless wire wheels were fitted in 2016 and a stainless steel exhaust system fitted in July 2015. At some stage the cylinder head has been converted to run on unleaded fuel. The vendor has enjoyed owning this Jaguar immensely, taking the car on trips to Wings and Wheels, Silverstone Classic and Le Mans Classic. Best described as a good genuine example in thoroughly useable condition, this 2+2 fixedhead coupé is a British icon.