Lot 664: 1961 Jaguar E-Type Series I ‘Flat Floor’ 3.8-Litre Roadster

Introduced in 3.8-litre form in 1961, the Jaguar E-Type caused a sensation when it appeared, with instantly classic lines and 150mph top speed. The newcomer’s design owed much to that of the racing D-Type: a monocoque tub forming the main structure, while a tubular spaceframe extended forwards to support the engine. The latter was the same 3.8-litre, triple-carburettor ‘S’ unit first offered as an option on the preceding XK150. An optimistic 265bhp was claimed, but whatever the installed horsepower, the E-Type’s performance did not disappoint; firstly, because it weighed around 500lb (227kg) less than the XK150 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. Taller drivers though, could find the 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 sportscar, it is the very early ‘flat floor’ 3.8-litre cars built prior to February 1962 which, for many enthusiasts, remain the most desirable. This Series 1 ‘flat floor’ roadster was fully restored to ‘concours’ condition by recognised Jaguar specialists Marksdanes circa ten years ago and has covered only a mere 2,600-or-so miles since. Its ‘87’ chassis number prefix indicates that this car was built in left-hand drive form, the conversion to the current right-hand drive configuration presumably being undertaken at time of restoration. ‘870654’ has the early version’s recessed bonnet louvres, while the only deviations from factory specification listed are performance-enhancing triple Weber carburettors and the more user-friendly all-synchromesh gearbox as fitted to 4.2-litre E-Types. Finished in Carmine Red with black hide upholstery and aluminium-alloy dashboard, this exceptional car is offered with MoT to February 2007 and Swansea V5 registration document.