Lot 044: 1966 JAGUAR E-TYPE 4.2 COUPE

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, it soon acquired a strong competition heritage of its own. Faster and more glamorous than virtually any production rivals, the newcomer put many so-called 'sportscars' to shame at its 1961 Geneva Motor Show launch. Certainly few could live with the model's reputed 150mph top speed or the savage acceleration that allowed it to touch 60mph in less than seven seconds. In an age when a 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 250 SWB and its 250 GTO successor made do with 'live' rear axles, the E-type utilised a sophisticated independent rear set-up with inboard disc brakes. Rack and pinion steering enabled a driver to make the most of the monocoque chassis's excellent roadholding and handling, putting it light years ahead of American designs like the Corvette. Revised in 1964, the E-type gained a torquier 4235cc powerplant and four-speed all-synchromesh gearbox of Jaguar's own design. Finished in red with black leather upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "good" condition with regard to its engine, four-speed manual gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim, chassis, bodywork, paintwork and wheels / tyres. Reportedly treated to an engine overhaul (1987) and respray (1988) before entering the current family ownership some eighteen years ago, 'NBY 31D' is further understood to have had its "interior redone in the early 1990s". Kept in a garage, it rides on wire wheels and sports a Webasto sunroof. Showing an unwarranted 58,000 miles to its odometer, this appealing E-type is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until July 2008 and historic class (free) road tax valid until June 2008.