Lot 381: 1961 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 ‘Flat Floor’ Roadster

Few cars in history have created the sensation which Jaguar’s new E Type Roadster achieved when unveiled at the Geneva Salon in 1961. Jaguar’s racing heritage was reflected with a hint of the D Type sports racing cars in the styling and the transition through the XKSS model was clearly apparent. Not only was the car aesthetically pleasing but it adopted the well-proven 3.8 litre, six-cylinder, twin overhead camshaft, XK engine unit which developed a massive 265bhp at 5,500rpm. This provided a maximum speed of 153mph with blistering 0-60mph acceleration in just 7.2 seconds, and all this at an affordable price. Many of the new cars were used for the office during the week and on circuits or speed hill climbs at weekends.

Factory records confirm that chassis no.850305 was despatched from Browns Lane on 28th December 1961 and the car was first registered on 12th January 1962. The original colour was opalescent dark blue with grey leather interior, a colour scheme which this car retains. In 1987 the car was the subject of a painstaking restoration to coachwork, trim and mechanical aspects, maintaining the car as closely as possible in all respects to original specification. Detailed bills are available for inspection. The current recorded mileage is 57,000 or so miles and MoT records commencing in 1973 show the mileage then to be 15,127 miles, progressively increasing over the last 35 years to the present figure. In the present ownership since 1995 the car has covered some 15,000 or so miles. It is equipped with an FM radio (working on LW setting) which also has a CD/iPod input lead. Although not concours, this is an exceptionally well presented example of the ‘Flat Floor’ E Type which has been driven, enjoyed and cherished. It comes with a workshop manual, old MoTs and restoration bills, old style log book, authentication letter from Jaguar and Swansea registration document. The car is currently licenced and MoT’d.