One to Buy: RHD Coupe #1 1961 Jaguar E-type 3.8 FHC
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Even beyond the world of motoring, Jaguar’s E-type needs no introduction.
Thanks to its beautiful coachwork, state-of-the-art specification and impressive performance, the E-type came to be regarded as one of the 20th century’s most iconic automobiles.
Under the skin was a D-type-inspired steel monocoque into which Jaguar dropped their revered 3.8-litre 265bhp dual overhead cam straight six. Unlike many of its rivals, the E-type also featured fully independent suspension and disc brakes to all four wheels.
Following its public launch at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1961, Jaguar were inundated with orders from around the world. However, to help with Britain’s balance of payments (the country had built up a large deficit fighting World War 2), the E-type was initially introduced for export only which meant domestic buyers had to wait until July 1961 to get their hands on what was the hottest automotive property around.
On September 1st Gooding & Company will be auctioning the first right-hand drive E-type produced in FHC trim.
Chassis 860001 was completed on July 10th 1961 and configured in the handsome colour scheme of Opalescent Dark Blue with a Red leather interior. It was dispatched to Jaguar main dealer Henlys Group PLC where it served for many months as the company’s demonstrator.
Acquired by the consignor in 1998, chassis 860001 was subsequently put through a show quality restoration to its original specification, after which the car was re-united with its original and extremely valuable registration, VHP 1.
