1962 Jaguar E-type Series I 3.8 Roadster

1962 Jaguar E-type Series I 3.8 Roadster
Chassis no. 876751
Engine no. R4113-9
3,781cc DOHC Inline 6-Cylinder Engine
3 SU Carburetors
265bhp at 5,500rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes

*Beautifully presented Series I E-Type Roadster in classic BRG over Biscuit
*Factory LHD, matching-numbers engine example
*Fine example for shows or driving events
*Documented by Heritage Trust certificate and comprehensive history file

THE JAGUAR E-TYPE

When introduced at the 1961 Geneva Salon, Jaguar's E-Type stirred passions with its extremely sleek and timeless design backed by staggering performance. The newcomer's design owed much to that of the racing D-Type. Indeed, the E-Type would be one of the last great sports cars developed directly from a successful competition ancestor.

Just as in the D-Type, a monocoque tub formed the main body/chassis structure while a tubular spaceframe extended forwards to support the engine. The latter was the same 3.8-liter, triple-carbureted, 'S' unit first offered as an option on the preceding XK150. With a claimed 265 horsepower on tap, the E-Type's performance furthered the standards set by the preceding XK models: firstly, because it weighed around 500lbs less than the XK150 and secondly because aerodynamicist Malcolm Sayer used experience gained with the D-Type to create one of the most elegant and efficient shapes ever to grace a motor car.

Developed from that of the original XK120 sports car and refined in the racing D-Type, the double wishbone, independent front suspension was mounted on the forward sub frame. At the rear the E-Type's suspension broke new ground for a large-capacity sports car, being independent at a time when most of its major rivals relied on the traditional live rear axle. Dunlop disc brakes were fitted to all four wheels; those at the rear being mounted inboard alongside the differential to reduce un-sprung weight.

Often called the most beautiful production car of all time, the E-Type remains an automotive icon of design, engineering and speed.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

Offered here is an early, 3.8-liter example of the classic first-generation E-Type, completed during the early production run. Finished at the Browns Lane Jaguar factory in February of 1962, this car was produced in the 7th month of E-Type production. The new Jaguar was built in the Roadster form - or Open Two Seater as they would be referred to - equipped with a left-hand drive steering arrangement, and finished in a Silver Grey exterior color over a black interior and matching black weather equipment. The E-Type Roadster was slotted for North American delivery, and was dispatched to Jaguar Cars New York in March of 1962.

The car is recorded to have been in California for many decades, where it was in single ownership for about 20 years. The black California license plate on the car is believed to date back with this car, which would indicate that the Jaguar would have resided in the Golden State since the 1960s. Much restoration work has been performed, including refinishing the sleek Roadster bodywork in the appropriate and correct Series I E-Type color of British Racing Green, and a full professional re-trim of the interior and weather equipment in lovely contrasting Bisquit colored correct type materials, matched by a tan convertible top. Riding on lovely chrome wire wheels wrapped in appropriate Vredestein classic style tires, the E-Type looks just right. As is correct for the pre-1963 Jaguar E-Types, this fine example features the neat aluminum trim on the center console, and the early-type, more-pointy Roadster-like seats. A great example of the legendary E-Type, this car retains its original matching numbers engine as well. The Jaguar is offered with a binder of receipts and restoration details, as well as the Jaguar Heritage Trust issued certificate, confirming the cars original details. Recently serviced, this would be an eager and capable participant for concours events and vintage rallies.