The car that created a stir of excitement at the Geneva Motor Show at its 1961 launch, still packs a statement today. So popular at its launch, a second car was shipped in for display while the original display car became the test-driver to zip around people from the press.
Easy to see why it was so popular, Sir William Lyons, the head of Jaguar, was determined to deliver a new car that broke the technological boundaries of its time. With Malcolm Sayer instructed to create an automobile that was both striking in appearance yet powerful in performance, it meant that this was the first time that the boss, William Lyons, did not design the Jaguar himself.
Setting a benchmark in a price point to beat its rivals, the convertible fetched just under $20,000 less than a Ferrari 250 GT and $1,500 less than a Chevrolet Corvette, which helped make it even more desirable to the public.
With show-stopping headlights and advanced technology, the E-Type had included independent suspension on all wheels and powered by the 265-horsepower engine. At top speed, the car was also quiet due to superior aerodynamics using triple SU carburettors from the XK150 S model. The engine access made easy by designing it at a tipped forward angle, but the first 300 cars produced had flat floors that didn’t leave much legroom for drivers to put the pedal to the metal, which later evolved in production.
If you’re after buying a slice of automotive history, the 1962 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 3.8-Litre Roadster featured in the images here via RM Sotheby’s sold for $390, 848 AUD. A pretty hefty price for a ride in history, but after all who wouldn’t if you could.
Stay dapper gents.
Robbie – Dapper Lounge.
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