Lot 211: 1962 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 3.8 Litre

On its 1961 Geneva Show debut the E-Type caused a sensation, with all the promise of its looks confirmed by independent road test results that not only recorded a 150mph top speed, but also 0-60mph and 0-l00mph in 6.9 and 16.2 seconds respectively; fast indeed, and the match of any exotic thoroughbred then available, combined with superb road-holding and remarkable docility. Here was a sleek and beautiful car with a competition pedigree that could be bought for just over £2,000, almost half the cost of an Aston Martin or Ferrari. A direct descendant of the XK120 and competition C and D Type models that so dominated Fifties sports car racing, the E-Type shared its 265bhp 3.8 litre twin-cam' straight-six engine with the XK150 S, mated to a Moss four-speed gearbox with synchromesh on the top three ratios. Beneath the William Lyons/Malcolm Sayer-styled body, available in either closed or roadster form, the steel monocoque chassis sported all-independent suspension and four-wheel disc brakes, mounted inboard at the back. On offer today is perhaps one of the finest E Types we have seen. Originally produced in 1962, this car was off the road for almost 30 years until the current owner demanded the best E-Type at any cost. Classic Coach Builders in Sittingbourne, Kent, regarded as one of Britain's leading restorers, with over 20 years experience, was commissioned with the work and the car has been finished to concours condition with notable upgrades. The engine was completely overhauled and uprated to fast road specification, including fitment of triple Weber carburettors, by VSE in Wales, again, noted as among the very best in its field, and the brakes fitted with larger calipers to rein in the increased performance. Other enhancements include an aluminium radiator and additional cooling which make summer city driving a practical proposition. Also completely refurbished was the interior, finished in biscuit Connolly leather, and it is in perfect condition. Other improvements include a well hidden CD changer operated by remote control, while the original Motorola radio is still in place. Finished in black, this car drives every bit as well as it looks with an effortless gear change and smooth performance from the engine which has covered only a few thousand miles since being rebuilt, and is thus nicely run-in. Offered with a current MoT test certificate valid until April next year, the original buff logbook, a V5 registration document and bills from Classic Coachbuilders totalling over £50,000, this is perhaps one of the best examples of an E-Type on the road today, and one which provides all the charms of the original but with subtle modern improvements.