Taking what Jaguar had learned on the track with their C- and D-types and applying it to a new road model, the company’s E-Type featured a monocoque passenger compartment and tail section, a tube-framed engine bay, and a forward-tilting engine cover. With its well-appointed interior, civilized 3.8-liter six-cylinder engine, and a compliant suspension, it was an ideal open two-seater sports car. Sweeping lines and an aggressive yet undeniably sensual stance, crafted by William Lyons and Malcolm Sayers, gave the new Jaguar looks previously only seen on Italian cars. Even better, it was faster than the average Ferrari and Maserati, while being less costly than other rival European sports cars of the time. The motoring press ate it up, and sales of the E-Type went through the roof.

FLAT TO THE FLOOR

An accompanying Jaguar Heritage Trace Certificate relates that chassis 876552 was dispatched to its originating dealer via Max Hoffman’s Jaguar distributorship in New York on 29 January 1962. Clad from the factory in a Cream exterior over red leather upholstery and with a black convertible top, this E-Type has since been stylishly refinished with an ever-fashionable black coat while remaining faithful to its original interior and top color combination.

Chassis sequencing for the Series 1 3.8-liter roadsters production indicates that this handsome 1962 example is among the last of the 1,932 “flat floor” cars, and indeed it features the mid-series inside bonnet latches and latter pressed louvers. Thankfully, the older restoration which this E-Type wears today was executed to a high degree of accuracy as each of these distinctive factory features have been retained. Additional factory-correct features specific to these Series 1, US-market roadsters are found throughout the car’s exceptionally well-prepared cabin, engine bay, and exterior. Importantly, it is powered by its numbers-matching inline six-cylinder engine and cylinder head, here mated to a correct-type Moss non-synchromesh four-speed gearbox—yet another of those accurately presented mechanical features particular to these early E-Types. In preparation for sale, the consignor has recently fitted a completely new set of all-season tires to the proper chrome wire wheels with twin “dog ear” knockoff hubs.

The E-Type is considered by many to be one of those rare gifts to the automotive world, offering the enthusiast thrilling performance and jaw-dropping good looks. This attractive and expertly restored flat-floor roadster is poised for a new adventure, be it club events or enjoyable touring among other distinguished automobiles.