Vehicle Description
As the revolutionary XK series reached the end of its development,
Jaguar engineers, led by company founder Sir William Lyons, relied
again on the proven template of combining exotic looks and
race-proven technology in a surprisingly affordable package. Lyons
and his chief aerodynamicist Malcolm Sayer worked together to
design the new car, drawing inspiration from the Le Mans-winning
D-Type which employed a semi-monocoque tub with bolt-on front
sub-frames to support the engine and independent front suspension.
The E-Type also featured the ingenious modular independent rear
suspension with inboard brakes, pioneered on the Mk10 saloon. The
E-type also boasted such exotic tech as four-wheel disc brakes,
torsion bar front suspension, and a 3.8-liter version of the XK's
twin-cam inline-six pumping out an impressive 265 horsepower;
numbers one would expect from a car costing twice as much.
Co-designer Malcolm Sayer had no interest in designing a car based
purely on aesthetics; instead, he was far more interested in
aerodynamics and allowing his interpretations of airflow guide the
shape. The E-Type followed a natural progression from the path set
by the D-Type racing car, with evocative curves and a purposeful,
aggressive stance. Upon debut at the 1961 Geneva Auto Salon, it was
met with near-universal acclaim, and legend has it that even Enzo
Ferrari declared it the most beautiful car in the world. Today, the
E-Type is still regarded as one of the most significant pieces of
industrial design of the twentieth century, regularly topping "most
beautiful car ever" lists. Today's collectors still cherish the
E-Type, and despite being built in relatively large numbers
compared to its competitors, the car is a cornerstone of the car
collecting hobby. Our featured E-Type is a gorgeous 3.8-liter Fixed
Head Coupe from 1963, recently restored in the original shade of
Opalescent Gunmetal. The accompanying Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust
Certificate shows this car left the Coventry works on the 22nd of
August, 1963. The first owner is listed as J.R. Lazarus, and it
appears he collected his new Jaguar at the factory, as a UK
registration number was issued in Coventry before entering the
United States via Jaguar Cars North America. More recently, the car
belonged to an enthusiast on the East Coast, who commissioned a
complete restoration beginning in 2015. The mechanical restoration
is well-documented, and the work included a suspension and brake
system overhaul, engine service, and detail. After the mechanical
work, this car received a cosmetic restoration including new
paintwork and a striking red leather interior which was completed
in 2019. It presents in superb condition, with the Opalescent
Gunmetal paintwork ideally suited to the curvaceous shape of the
fixed-head coupe. The paint quality is excellent, with beautiful
straight reflections and consistent panel gaps. Bumpers and
exterior trim are in excellent condition as well, with high-quality
plating. Rolling stock consists of chrome knock-off wire wheels
fitted with fresh, period-look Blockley radial tires. Complementing
the dark gray paintwork is a stunning red leather interior, freshly
restored using materials supplied by the marque specialists OSJI.
Seats, carpets, and interior panels are all new and trimmed using
factory-correct materials. The details are well-researched and
concours-correct, including the proper leather-trimmed center
console and vinyl central instrument panel, which Jaguar added in
July of 1963 after customer complaints about glare from the bright
alloy trim used on earlier cars. Records show the original
instruments were restored, and the factory switchgear remains in
good condition. Finishing touches include a factory Smiths
Radiomobile radio and a beautiful, original-type three-spoke
wood-rimmed steering wheel. During the restoration, the original,
numbers-matching engine was removed, inspected, and completely
resealed. With the head off, the cylinders were examined and found
to be in good order. The cylinder head received a full rebuild with
align-bored cam journals, new exhaust valves, springs, and cam
bearings. Various mounts and ancillaries have been replaced as
needed with the purpose of making the car usable and enjoyable on
the road. Cooling is vastly improved via the large aluminum
radiator and the integrated electric cooling fan. Upon
reinstallation, the engine received new exhaust manifolds, correct
brass nuts, and polished cam covers and carburetor bodies. Finally,
a stainless steel exhaust system ensures long-term durability with
a rich and addictive exhaust note. For many enthusiasts, the
3.8-liter E-Type represents the best of the breed, with its
unfiltered character and free-revving engine providing an
unforgettable driving experience. The weather-tight cabin and ample
luggage compartment make the fixed-head an ideal choice for
touring. This example is thoughtfully prepared for road use, yet
has strong cosmetics that make it well-suited for participation in
JCNA shows and regional concours. With its gorgeous presentation
and striking color combination, this striking E-Type coupe will
surely reward its next keeper for years to come. Offers welcome and
trades considered