Driving in the summer is about freedom and finding fun in the great outdoors. The open highway becomes an adventure — with the right car, of course. Coupes are a wonderful way to escape the city in summer, whatever the weather might bring, and arguably one of the most recognizable and iconic coupes is the Jaguar E-Type Coupe.

An automobile allegedly once called, "The most beautiful car ever made," by none other than Enzo Ferrari, the E-Type has become a must-have for any lover of vintage cars. Today, it's possible to have a brand new Jaguar E-Type, thanks to the dedication and experience of custom automotive design experts.

But is the Jaguar E-Type Coupe a great summer vehicle?

A Brief History of the Jaguar E-Type Coupe

The Jaguar E-Type's history famously starts in 1961, at the Geneva Auto Salon. Sir William Lyons, founder of the Jaguar company, belatedly decided he needed two models for the show. This led to an incredible high-speed continental drive from Coventry to Geneva, which only added to the car's sense of wonder.

The E-Type claimed a top speed of 150mph which, at the time, was outrageously fast. It also had a cheaper price tag than its rivals, and looked incredible. The sleek curves of the Jaguar E-Type coupe and roadster were like nothing else on the market.

It was also an unusually lightweight car, which contributed to motorsport success for drivers Graham Hill and Jackie Stewart. In 2011, Jackie Stewart was reunited with his winning racecar during the 50th anniversary celebrations of the Jaguar E-Type.

In 1975, the E-Type was replaced by the Jaguar XJ-S. Jaguar's current coupe is the F-Type, an homage to the E-Type but thoroughly modern in styling. The F-Type hunkers to the road with a huge grill like a big cat waiting to pounce. In contrast, the E-Type is slender, playful, and feels lighter on its wheels.

The Perfect Summer Drive

Does this make it great for summer driving? To answer that, it's important to consider what features a summer vehicle needs. It must have great handling, of course. The Jaguar E-Type coupe has advantages over the roadster here. A fixed roof aids with aerodynamics, ensuring the sleek lines do exactly what they're supposed to and cut almost effortlessly through the air. Plus, it's one less moving part requiring regular maintenance.

Another benefit of a fixed roof is the ability to deal with any weather. While some drivers love the feel of the wind in their hair, the sudden onset of a summer storm can dampen even the most ardent enthusiasm. Instead, enjoy the view from one of the best seats on the road, safe from wind, rain, and bugs. Modern, custom-built E-Types can have top-end air conditioning, so the hot summer days become as cool as needed.

One of the main reasons drivers love to take their Jaguar E-Type coupe out on the road in summer is the simple prestige factor. This is a car for showing off. Expect nods and waves and the occasional honked horn from other vintage car enthusiasts and even motorsport fanatics. The Jaguar E-Type is and always has been a car for being noticed in, but with elegance and flair rather than ostentatiousness.

Formula One superstar Damon Hill got the unique chance to drive his dad, Graham Hill's race-winning E-Type back in 2021. He told Motor Sports Magazine, "The E-Type, it has quite a lot of power, accelerates well and sounds absolutely fantastic." He added, "It's beautiful – and it was wonderful to have been flying along in it at Silverstone on a hot summer's day."

jaguar etype in florida

Seize Summer with a Custom Jaguar E-Type Coupe

ECD Auto Design (ECD) recently announced the completion of its first-ever completely bespoke Jaguar E-Type. The team at ECD has applied the same level of care it employs in its popular Defender and Range Rover custom builds to this classic design. It takes 2,200 hours of care and attention to produce a motor that combines the glamour and aesthetics of the original with bespoke, modern features.

When the summer nights get cool, drivers can enjoy the luxury of heated OEM-style seats in high-quality Spinneybeck leather. Or, how about a top-of-the-range audio system? Cruise in style while enjoying the latest summer hits -- or maybe some vintage tunes, to keep everything on theme.

Other features customers enjoy in their bespoke Jaguar E-Type Coupe include:

• Chrome-accented steering wheel
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Automatic headlights
• Blind spot assistance
• Push start button
• Options of the historic Jaguar drivetrain, GM LT-1, or a Tesla all-electric system
• Options for Series 1, 2, or 3, all available as a coupe
• Colors ranging from British Racing Green to Carmine Red
• Personalized interiors

Talk to the team at ECD about specific needs. Only 10-12 of these exclusive models are made every year. Reconnect with the past and order the ultimate summer vehicle – the Jaguar E-Type Coupe.