Lot 150

Open Roads, May

1961 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 3.8-Litre Roadster

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$165,000 USD | Sold

United States | New Paltz, New York

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Chassis No.
875618
Engine No.
R 1878-9
Cylinder Head No.
R 1878-9
Documents
US Registration
  • Desirable Series 1 roadster with early flat-floor design
  • Numbers-matching 3.8-liter inline six-cylinder engine
  • Accompanied by JDHT certificate, owner’s handbook, knock-off hammer, and jack with bag
Please note that this lot is titled as a 1962.
Addendum: Please note that the correct model year for this Jaguar is 1961.

The Jaguar E-Type is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and significant sports cars in automotive history. It launched at the Geneva Motor Show in May of 1961 to immediate acclaim. Designed by William Lyons and aerodynamicist Malcom Sayer, it was based on the three-time Le Mans 24 Hours-winning D-Type. It featured a one-piece hood that tipped forward for unparalleled access. Front and rear sub-frames carried the engine and rear axle, and could be unbolted for access, while the center tub was immensely strong. The E-Type had independent suspension with torsion bars up front, and coil-over springs at the rear. Dunlop disc brakes were fitted all round, with the rears mounted inboard. The E-Type debuted with a 3.8-liter inline six-cylinder and a four-speed manual transmission. Engine displacement increased to 4.2 liters in 1964 and was accompanied by other upgrades, including better brakes and improved electrics.

The E-Type offered here was manufactured on 26 September 1961 and left the factory finished in Opalescent Bronze with a Biscuit interior and red soft top, according to the accompanying Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust certificate. It was originally distributed out of New York. This example features the earlier flat-floor design.

The car was reportedly refurbished under previous ownership around 2005 and altered to its current more traditional British color scheme of green over tan with a tan soft top. The four-speed manual transmission has been replaced with a Getrag five-speed. Further modifications include an electronic distributor, CoolCat aluminum radiator with electric fan, and an aftermarket Kenwood stereo with CD player. The 15-inch wire wheels are mounted with two-eared knock-offs and wear Michelin tires.

Under current ownership since 2014, this E-Type has reportedly been driven less than 2,000 miles. It is accompanied by the JDHT certificate, manual, spare, jack, tool roll, Jaguar protective knock-off wrench and mallet, and a period-correct four-speed manual transmission.