Lot 455: 1965 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 Fixedhead Coupe

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. One of the greatest post-war sports cars, Jaguar's E-Type made immediate headlines on its launch in March 1961. Here was a sleek and beautiful 150mph 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. Complete with V5C registration document and road tax exempt, this desirable series 1 E-type is described as being in excellent condition in every respect. It has just 55,000 miles recorded from new and has current and past MoT's to substantiate this. The car has benefited from a 3,000 respray this year, and has reportedly had work completed on the steering and braking systems in order to aid the driving experience. Included are the original parts for later fitment if required. Supplied with the car are a number of spare parts including replacement headlight glass covers and miscellaneous suspension components. DCJ 670C drives well, braking and accelerating in a straight line as well as maintaining a good temperature and pressure around the town.