Jaguar Cars is known for luxury British sports cars with international appeal. Perhaps the most famous is the E-type. See what the hype is all about and the benefits of a Jaguar E-Type restoration for classic sports car enthusiasts.

History of the Jaguar E-Type

In 1961, this sports car first rolled off the Coventry assembly line. This grand tourer, with both two-seat coupe and two-seat roadster versions, was widely known for its style, beauty, and speed. It is, as Enzo Ferrari admitted, the “Most beautiful car in the world.”

Many key celebrities helped spread the word and increase the popularity of this iconic 1960s automobile. Frank Sinatra, Tony Curtis, George Best, and Sid James are just a few examples of famous E-type owners.

This stylish Jaguar made waves for a number of reasons. Not only was the body stunningly designed, but the team of engineers included several revolutionary features, such as an independent suspension and disc brakes on all four wheels.

After the E1A prototype, the E-type went through several additions and remained near the top of the list of most desirable automobiles. Here is the total number of E-types produced:

• Series 1: 33,205 cars
  
• Series 2: 18,808 cars
  
• Series 3: 15,287 cars
  

Production of all three series was manufactured over the course of 14 years, from 1961 to 1975. In North America, the E-type was known as the Jaguar XK-E. Regardless of the name, the model remains highly popular on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean and is an excellent addition to any garage.

Timeless Engineering

The blue-chip classic continues to impress audiences and turn heads with its precision engineering and timeless look. Here are some fast facts about the Jaguar E-type:

• 265 bhp
  
• 3.8-liter engine
  
• Top speeds of about 150 miles per hour
  
• Independent suspension
  
• Disc brakes on all four wheels
  
• Aerodynamic shape creating by Malcolm Sayer, a former aeronautics engineer
  

E-Type Series Offerings

Ever since the first model rolled off the line, the E-type has undergone several key variations. Most were minor, but some made significant alterations to the classic design:

• Series 1 3.8: A triple SU carburetted engine with six cylinders powered the first E-types. Glass-covered headlights, exterior bonnet locks, and an aluminum dashboard were just a few of the famous features only found in the first few years of production. 
• Series 1 4.2: A four-speed all-synchromesh gearbox and the new 4.2-liter engine took this version of the Series 1 to the next level. This update also included a negative earth electrical system and conventional brake servos. 
• Series 2 4.2: A larger front opening or mouth, glass-less headlights, and wrap-around bumpers are just a few features Jaguar introduced in Series 2 of the E-type. This model also included improved braking and radiator performance. 
• Series 3 V12: The final of the classic series’ included a V12 engine, longer floor plan, and wider wheels for the grand finale of E-type manufacturing.
  

In addition to these classic offerings, Jaguar also introduced the E-type Zero, E-type Reborn, and E-type 60.

Jaguar E-Type Restoration

The Series 1, 2, and 3 Jaguars remain the classic, highly-sought-after versions for both restoration and modification. Classic sports car fans should work with a team of restoration professionals to achieve a memorable E-type Jaguar restoration.

From one of the first Series 1 roadsters to the latest Series 3 V12, turn to a dedicated shop for quality restoration services. Contact us at ECD Automotive Design to learn more about Custom Jaguar E-type restoration opportunities.