Upon its introduction, Enzo Ferrari called the Jaguar XKE "the most beautiful car ever made." He later regretted saying it, but few could deny it being at least the most beautiful car of its time. The XKE, or E-Type, was intended as the next-generation replacement to Jaguar’s XK120 and XK150 series of sports cars, and its design was the culmination of lessons learned from that series during road use and from the three-time Le Mans winning D-Type sports racer in the heat of competition. The central steel monocoque, with a front sub-frame supporting the engine and independent front suspension, contribute to the E-Type’s excellent handling.
The Jaguar XKE was inspired by Jaguar’s founder Sir William Lyons and designed by aerodynamic engineer Malcom Sayer. The magnificent combination of design and performance resulted in a mass-produced supercar whose appeal has endured for decades. These days, Historic and Vintage Races are regularly dominated by race-prepared E-Types, which has extended the legacy of the marque.
This E-Type represents, quite simply, the most iconic British performance car of its era.
