Lot 006: 1962 JAGUAR E-TYPE 3.8 ROADSTER

One of the great motoring icons of the last century, Jaguar`s E-type is a car that has always inspired loyalty and devotion. Born out of the fabulous D-type racer, the newcomer soon acquired a strong competition heritage of its own (as witnessed by Briggs Cunningham and Roy Salvadori`s strong drive to 4th overall in the 1962 Le Mans 24-hours). Faster and mnore glamorous than virtually all its production rivals, it put many so called `sportscars` to shame at its 1961 Geneva Motorshow launch. Certainly few could live with its reputed 150mph top speed or the savage acceleration that allowed it to touch 60mph in less than 7 seconds. In an age when decent family saloon could call upon its engine for 65bhp, the E-type`s 3781cc, DOHC, straight six claimed an additional 200bhp. While Ferrari`s lauded 250GT SWB and 250 GTO made do with live rear axles, the E-type utilised a sophisticated independent rear set up with inboard rear disc brakes. Rack and pinion steering enabled the driver to make the most of the monocoque chassis excellent road holding and handling, putting it light years ahead of American designs like the Corvette. Finished in British Racing Green with tan upholstery, this particular example is variously described by the vendor as being in "fair" (bodywork, paintwork), "OK" (interior trim, chassis, wheels / tyres), "good" (electrical equipment, engine) or "very good" (manual gearbox) condition. Beginning life as a fixed-head coupe, chassis 860391 had been converted into a roadster by the time it entered the current ownership via our June 7th 2000 Buxton auction. Indeed, the car's then keeper stated that it had undergone an extensive restoration in 1992-1993 including the fitting of "an all new floorpan and Jaguar panels" not to mention a thorough mechanical overhaul and the sourcing of a new double-duck hood etc. Resident in Eire since 2000, the last few years have apparently seen the E-type receive attention to its "gearbox, subframe and electrics". Altogether, the work is said to have totalled "about £20,000". An appealing proposition, this Series I E-type rides on wire wheels and sports an early type interior complete with turned aluminium centre console, Dunlopillo seats and wood-rim steering wheel.