Jaguar E-Type Turns 60

E-Type UK celebrates the anniversary of an icon with three glorious 1960s examples.

The Jaguar E-Type, also commonly regarded as the most beautiful car ever made, is turning 60 this year. E-Type UK are specialists in all things E-Type, including selling, restoring and maintaining them.

To celebrate the 60th anniversary of a car that Enzo Ferrari himself famously described as ‘the most beautiful car ever made’ E-Type UK are sharing with us three of their most well-kept and extraordinary examples.

In this fantastic trio, we have two fixed-head coupes (FHC) and one roadster, each in incredible condition considering they are cars from the 1960s. These examples stand testament to the world-renowned design that is adored by all kinds of motoring enthusiasts and no doubt is still boosting Jaguar’s reputation to this day.

Painted in classic Carmen Red with black leather interior, the fixed-head coupe at the front is a 1965 Series 1 4.2 left-hand drive example. It was restored by E-Type UK in 2016 with the repairs it underwent being rather significant. The engine bay was stripped completely with the carburettors being rebuilt, ancillaries cleaned and a new wiring loom was fitted.

The bodywork experienced similar intensive treatment with a full strip-down and media blasting to remove any corrosion. Sills, floor sections and rear outer wings were replaced resulting in this car appearing like new. As the gearbox and engine were rebuilt, this nearly 60-year-old beauty is described as ‘highly usable’ and certainly much more reliable thanks to a lot of brand new components under the bonnet.

That being said, the one that really draws our attention is the beautiful roadster finished in period-correct Gunmetal grey with red interior trim, a colour combo still very popular in modern convertibles. Marked with chassis number 401, this LHD example is a 1961 Series 1 3.8, with the 3.8-litre straight-six engine being one of the most sought after amongst collectors.

Said to be very desirable among the E-Type experts not only due to the original 3.8 engine but also because of the ‘flat floor’ body, welded bonnet louvres and polka dot aluminium centre console. Although the engine is original, some upgrades have been made including a new aluminium radiator and power steering. Described as one of the ‘purest possible examples’ of the world-renowned E-Type.

Lastly, finished in Dark Blue (not black!) with a similar Oxblood Red interior, E-Type UK shares a 1965 Series 1 4.2 RHD FHC. Featuring a bigger engine and more luxurious interior. The Series 1 4.2 model is said to be one of the most desirable and if that’s the case, this one will be at the top of the list. With only 3 owners spanning 56 years, its been subject to a ‘no expense spared’ restoration by E-Type UK.

Their team of expert engineers have worked tirelessly on fitting a totally bespoke fuel injection engine mated to an upgraded 5-speed gearbox, as well as fitting upgraded vented brake discs, AP Racing fout-pot callipers, adjustable shocks and stainless steel exhaust.

The end product is what some would call sacrilege, others would call art. A cherished, classic E-Type with some rather modern engineering features making it sportier and more robust.

What a great show for the E-Type’s 60th! Let us know which is your favorite, in the comments below!

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