265 bhp, 3,781 cc DOHC inline six-cylinder engine, triple SU carburetors, four-speed manual gearbox, independent front suspension with semi-trailing wishbones and torsion bars, independent rear suspension with transverse links, driveshafts with universal joints inboard and outboard, and twin coil-springs over shock-absorbers on each side, and power-assisted front disc brakes and inboard rear disc brakes. Wheelbase: 96 in.

• Rare early-production E-Type; flat floor and welded louvers

• Matching-numbers and includes a Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust certificate

• Comprehensively restored

Launched at the Geneva Auto Show in March 1961, the Jaguar E-Type was seen as nothing short of sensational. Stunningly different from the body-on-frame XK150 it replaced, the E-Type was effectively an evolution of the racing D-Type; it had a monocoque tub with front and rear subframes to carry mechanical components, and it featured outstandingly sleek styling, which was wind-tunnel-developed by Jaguar’s aerodynamicist, Malcolm Sayer.

The E-Type roadster being offered here was built in October 1961 and is a rare and early example of the marque. It is identifiable by subtle clues, such as the flat floor and a separate stamping for bonnet louvers. As such, this car is representative of a model that is deservedly sought-after. Authenticity of this early E-type, originally shipped to California, is reinforced by the accompanying Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust certificate. Noted are the matching numbered components, including the 3.8-liter DOHC engine and Moss four-speed manual gearbox.

A comprehensive restoration by a noted specialist has included a rebuild of the engine and transmission, plus the braking and fuel systems. The body, stripped to bare metal and with excellent panel fit and gaps, has been refinished with two-stage epoxy and four layers of high quality clear coat. The color is an appealingly-correct Old English White. The interior is upholstered in red leather and the cloth top is black. With the clean and uncluttered lines of the early E-Types, this beautifully-finished and highly presentable car is one that epitomizes the E-Type mystique that persists even today. It should be of special interest to the collector who is impressed by its condition and authenticity and who fully appreciates the value of these scarce early production examples.