Collectors\' Motor Cars and Automobilia

MOTOR CARS | 165

0ntroduced in 3.-litre form in 191, the Jaguar E-Type (?KE in the <SA)
caused a sensation when it appeared, with instantly classic lines and
150mph top speed. While, inevitably, the car's stupendous straight-line
performance and gorgeous looks grabbed the headlines, there was
nevertheless a lot more to the E-Type beneath the skin.

The newcomers design owed much to that of the racing D-Type"
indeed, the E-Type would be one of the last great sports cars developed
directly from a successful competition ancestor. Just as in the D-Type, a
monocoque tub formed the main body/chassis structure while a tubular
spaceframe extended forwards to support the engine. The latter was the
same 3.-litre, triple-carburettor, S unit first offered as an option on the
preceding ?K150.

With a claimed 265 horsepower on tap, the E-Type's performance
did not disappoint" firstly, because it weighed around 500lb less than
the ?K150 and secondly because aerodynamicist Malcolm Sayer used
experience gained with the D-Type to create one of the most elegant and
efficient shapes ever to grace a motor car. Developed from that of the
original ?K120 sports car and refined in the racing D-Type, the double
wishbone, independent front suspension was mounted on the forward
subframe that supported the engine.

The rear suspension broke new ground for a large-capacity sports car,

being independent at a time when most of its major rivals relied on the

traditional live rear axle. Dunlop disc brakes were fitted to all four wheels"

those at the rear being mounted inboard alongside the differential to

reduce un-sprung weight. Only in terms of its transmission did the E-Type

represent no significant advance over the ?K150 whose durable four-

speed Moss gearbox it retained.

Despite the E-Types gorgeous appearance, taller drivers could find

its interior somewhat lacking in space, a criticism addressed by the

introduction of foot wells (and other, more minor modifications) early

in 1962. But of all the versions of Jaguar's long-lived and much-loved

sports car, it is the very early Åat Åoor 3.-litre cars built prior to February

1962 which, for many enthusiasts, remain the most desirable.

This original <K-registered right-hand drive car has been the subQect of

a two-year body off restoration by the world renowned ?K Engineering.

Completed in 2016, it is presented in concours condition and has to be

one of the very best of its type currently available. Finished in Gunmetal

Grey with dark blue leather interior, this beautiful early Åat Åoor E-Type is

offered with restoration invoices, Heritage Certificate, current MoT, and a

V5 registration document.

£200,000 - 250,000

€230,000 - 290,000