One to Buy: 100-point 1961 Jaguar E-type 3.8 Roadster
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As a consequence of its stunning era defining coachwork, the advanced nature of the Jaguar E-type’s technical specification is often overlooked.
Unlike rival offerings from Ferrari, Maserati or Aston Martin (that retailed at multiples of the new Jaguar’s price), the E-type featured a monocoque construction, fully independent suspension and four-wheel disc brakes. A throaty dual overhead camshaft straight six engine putting out 265bhp meant there was more than sufficient gusto.
Unsurprisingly, having taken the 1961 Geneva Motor Show by storm, orders flooded in for the sensational new Jaguar which Enzo Ferrari reputedly described as “the most beautiful car in the world”.
Currently on offer at the European Collectibles showroom in Costa Mesa, California, is arguably one of the finest early E-type Open Two Seat Roadsters in existence.
Chassis 875331 is a left-hand drive example presented in its original colour scheme of Opalescent Dark Blue with Light Blue upholstery and a Blue soft top. The car was dispatched from the Browns Lane factory on August 24th 1961 with its destination having been Jaguar Cars in New York.
A very early production example complete with outside hood latches, welded hood louvres and flat floors, it was restored by Jaguar specialists Classic Showcase in Oceanside, California, and amazingly went on to score 100 points at the Jaguar Owners Club of Los Angeles Concours d'Elegance in 2014.
