1961 Jaguar E-Type (Series 1)

Description

Stratton Motor Company are delighted to be able to offer this classic piece of British motoring history, the 1961 Jaguar E-Type (Series 1) 3.8litre Fixed Head Coupe which has come into our stock.

Famously described by Enzo Ferrari as ‘The most beautiful car ever made’

The Series 1, and probably the most desirable of the ‘Straight Six’ models was produced between 1961 and 1964 before the engine capacity was increased to 4.2litres. It had been design based on the Jaguar ‘D’ Type racing car which had won the Le Mans for three consecutive years from 1955. A novel design principle at the time, the main structure comprising of a ‘Body Tub’ structure with front subframe supporting the engine and suspension being ‘bolted’ to the tub as opposed to the conventional ladder chassis design that was far more common at the time.

The first cars produced had the ‘Flat Floor’ pans between the front of the drivers seat and the pedals that was later re-designed and sculptured for more depth.

Only 175 right hand drive Coupes were ever made and this is car number 60, wearing its original colour scheme and original registration number. This particular car was supplied on 18th December 1961 by Henley’s of London and potentially an early Christmas present for someone and has recently been registered with the Jaguar Heritage Trust.

Finished in Gunmetal Grey it has a lovely contrasting classic ‘Ox Blood’ Red leather interior including carpets and the ‘Toggle’ switch dashboard and covered headlights for the early E-Types.

A complete ground up restoration was commenced in 2000 and it remains in a beautiful condition, clearly only ever being used on special occasions and sunny days. An old MOT shows mileage in 1998 as being 1071, and yet now just 2890 so just 1800 miles in 27 years. Fitted with wider wire wheel upgrade, the original set of wire wheels are also with the car.

The file shows just two former keepers in it’s 64 year life which is quite remarkable.

Powered by a 3.8litre straight six twin cam engine developing 265bhp this car is capable of reaching 60mph in just 6.9 seconds with a top speed of around 150mph, remarkable for its day.

A beautiful and well cared for example of this sought after classic.

• Jaguar
• Prestige
• E-Type