Lot 17: Jaguar E-Type Fixed Head Coupe

Causing a sensation at its unveiling at the Geneva Show in March 1961, the E-Type captured the imagination of the motoring press and public alike.  Powered by the redoubtable 3.8-litre XK engine developing 265bhp, the new Jaguar offered performance that was hitherto the preserve only of motor cars costing more than twice its price.  (The open two-seater cost £2,097 whilst the fixed head coupé came in at £2,261 including purchase tax.) Considerable success was to follow, both on the home market and overseas, and the E-Type was to attain iconic status and enjoy an illustrious production run of fourteen years. Today the earlier versions are always in strong demand offering, as they do, a special appeal and purity of design. With the coming of the 4.2-litre engine in 1964, bottom end torque and mid-range pick-up were considerably improved and a further bonus was the fitment of a new, Jaguar-designed gearbox which made for far slicker changes than were possible on the previous Moss unit. Also, this new gearbox benefited from synchromesh on first gear. The seats were also re-designed giving better support, which was especially welcome on the long continental journeys for which the E-Type was intended. An original home market right-hand-drive example, this fixed head coupé was manufactured during 1965 and is finished in metallic blue as original. The car would appear to have been well maintained over the years and has benefited from several worthwhile upgrades including fitment of a Kenlowe fan, Coopercraft front brakes and an HBE handling kit. The exhaust system is a stainless steel unit and the car also has electronic ignition. Dunlop competition wire wheels are fitted and the car retains its original grey leather interior trim. Documentation includes a Swansea V5 document and MOT certificate current until 14th May 2007.