See our selection of Jaguar E-Types for sale
The Jaguar E-Type was manufactured between 1961 and 1974, and swiftly became an iconic sports car due to the astounding looks, performance and suprising value for money when compared against other cars seen as being as desirable as the E-Type. A true icon of 1960's motoring, the appeal of the shape desscribed by Enzo Ferrari as 'the most beautiful car ever built' has, if anything, increased over the years.
Indeed as recently as 2008 the Jaguar E-Type was voted as 'the most beautiful car of all time' by readers of the Daily Telegraph in the UK.
There were three distinct series of E-Type Jaguars as outlined below:
Series 1 (1961-1967)
The Series 1 E-Type Roadster was released in conjunction with the Coupé in 1961 and featured the 3.8 litre Jaguar XK6 engine that had originally been used in the Jaguar XK150s.
In late 1964 the engine size was increased to 4.2 litres. With independent rear suspension and disc brakes as standard, the E-Type represented a real 'step change' in what was possible both from a design and performance point of view.
Series 2 (1968-1971)
The main external visual changes that came in with the debut of the Series 2 were open headlights without the distinctive glass covers of the Series 1, an altered rear bumper, indicators and rear lights and an enlarged air intake at the front of the car. Internally, there were changes to the dashboard layout and switches, new seats and an enhanced range of factory options including power steering and even air-conditioning for some markets. Mechanically, there was better cooling, enhanced brakes and changes to the cam covers.
Series 3 (1971-1975)
The 5.3 litre V12 engine, further brake upgrades and power steering were the hallmarks of the Series 3. With the addition of the slatted front grill, flared wheel arches the Series 3 is distinctive and easily recognised.
The V12 appeared as a Roadster, sharing it's sister V12 2+2 Coupe wheelbase and longer doors. This was the first time you could purchase an 'open' E-Type with automatic transmission.
