Jaguar E-Type Review
The Jaguar E-Type is one of the most important and iconic sports car ever produced. When it was debuted at the 1961 Geneva Auto Salon, not only did it steal the show and headline, Enzo Ferrari himself described the Jag as ‘the most beautiful car in the world’. High praise indeed.
The Jaguar E-Type redefined the sports car, it also showed us how little it could cost to buy a car capable of 150mph; more than half the price of Aston Martin’s DB4… Those famous 150mph runs were in pre-production models, so they couldn’t be replicated by the owners despite their best efforts!
In 1964, the 3.8-litre was superseded by the newly-expanded 4235cc version of the XK engine. Although maximum power output remained unchanged at 265bhp, torque was increased, improving driveability. Performance remained pretty much unchanged, and many owners gave up trying to match the 150mph claim, as it simply wasn't possible with an unmodified car. A further revelation was the introduction of the Moss gearbox; many owners choose to retrofit this to their older cars.
The E-Type was a raging success in every right, however Jaguar knew their sales were being held back by one thing. The two-seat arrangement. In 1966 they introduced a 2+2 car, to cater to families. The wheelbase was extended, and the cabin increased in size by nine inches. Further revisions of Jaguar E-Type cars over the years included upgraded headlights, a larger front grille opening and a heavier front bumper. Mechanical upgrades were limited to an improved cooling system and improved brakes.
Residual prices for used Jaguar E-Type cars vary massively on the market, the Series 2 Coupes are the rarest of the lot, with just 5,000 being built. They also represented the end of the original shorter-wheelbase coupe body style. The 2+2 body style was hugely popular when first released, and today makes a great classic to own. A perfect mix of history and practicality, a four seat v12 masterpiece is the perfect way to transport your family!
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