"Launched at the 1961 Geneva Motor Show, the Jaguar E-Type was nothing short of a revelation. With its heady blend of supercar performance, breathtaking styling and low-price tag, the newcomer left rivals reeling and customers clamouring. Early sportscar racing success at the hands of Graham Hill and Roy Salvadori amongst others helped cement its reputation. Built as a monocoque with a front sub-frame to cradle the engine, the model's combination of all-round independent suspension (torsion-bar front/coil-sprung rear) rack and pinion steering and four-wheel disc brakes gave it excellent road holding and handling capabilities. Fed by triple SU HD8 carburettors and topped with a 'straight port' DOHC cylinder head, its indomitable 3781cc straight-six engine was quoted as developing some 265bhp and 260lbft of torque. Allied to a four-speed Moss gearbox (with synchromesh on second, third and fourth), it reputedly enabled the E-Type to sprint from 0-60mph in 6.9 seconds and on to 150mph.
This fabulous E-Type has been lovingly restored over a long period, the result is a beautiful example of a ‘flat-floor’ very early 3.8 roadster. Finished in the delightful colour combination of Golden Sand with Tan interior, no stone has been left unturned in this nut and bolt restoration. The matching number engine has been rebuilt, as has the Moss gearbox. The rear axle has been overhauled and a new clutch fitted. The brakes, suspension and hoses have all been replaced. The paintwork has been carried out to a very good standard as has the re-trim. Early E-Types have lots of unique features to later cars, the doors were built in three parts and the rear boot drain tubes in the centre to name a couple. Eagle eyed enthusiasts will note this car has outside bonnet locks on the bonnet. This feature was only on the first 500 cars manufactured, with the feature stopping on chassis number 875385 on the US specification roadsters. This car is 18 cars outside of that range, it is thought the bonnet locks were fitted at a later date. The vendor has applied for the car to be UK registered and it is hoped this will be completed prior to auction. This really is a stunning E-Type that has covered minimal mileage since its nut and bolt restoration and will therefore require a shakedown period, with minor adjustments and repairs expected for a few weeks.
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