1962 | Jaguar E-Type 3.8

Lot details

Year: 1962
Make: Jaguar
Model: E-Type Series I 3.8 Litre Coupe (Flat Floor)
Registration: 368 UYP
Chassis No: 860120
Engine No: R 3270-9
Mileage: 60,208
(a): Original right hand drive example
(b): Restored by Richards of England
(c): Interesting and comprehensive history folder

The Jaguar E-Type Flat Floor Coupe is one of the most iconic and desirable classic cars ever produced. When the Jaguar E-Type was introduced in 1961, it stunned the world with its sleek, aerodynamic design, high performance, and relatively affordable price compared to other sports cars of its era. Designed by Malcolm Sayer, the E-Type's curvaceous bodywork was inspired by the company's racing heritage, particularly from the D-Type, and was lauded for its beauty, with the highest compliment being paid by Enzo Ferrari. The Series 1 is often considered the purest form of the E-Type. The model is characterised by its 3.8 litre inline-six engine that delivered a potent 265 horsepower. Coupled with its lightweight monocoque construction and independent suspension, the E-Type could reach a top speed of 150 mph, making it one of the fastest cars of its time. One distinctive feature of the 1962 models, especially the early ones, is the "flat floor" design. These cars had less legroom due to their flat floorpans, a detail that was later altered for improved driver comfort by incorporating a recessed floor. Flat Floor E-Types are particularly rare and sought after by collectors due to this short-lived design characteristic. The interior of the Series I E-Type is just as impressive, featuring leather seats, toggle switches, and a stylish dashboard that oozes vintage charm. Its disc brakes, advanced for the time, gave the car impressive stopping power to match its speed. Today, the Jaguar E-Type Flat Floor Coupe is highly prized among car enthusiasts and collectors, a symbol of British automotive excellence and a timeless design masterpiece.

According to the Jaguar Heritage Certificate, this genuine factory right hand drive E-Type was manufactured on 18th December 1961 and was despatched to Henlys in London on 10th January 1962. Finished in Imperial Maroon with Maroon leather interior this Series I was purchased by a wealthy farmer, Albie Malan, in Ladybrand, South Africa. In 1988 it found its way to New Zealand, courtesy of a Mr. John Lawrence where the car would remain for more than 25 years. From 2003 the car was used sparingly with just over 2,000 miles up to 2015 when the E-Type found a new owner based in the UK. Once repatriated, the Jaguar was entrusted to Lincoln-based Richards of England and given a thorough restoration. The car was stripped and taken back to bare metal with focus on retaining as many of the original panels as possible. It is estimated they spent around 500 hours on the fabrication work. The car was repainted to a very high standard in the original Imperial Maroon colour. The engine was rebuilt by M&Wilkinson and both the gearbox and axle were also rebuilt. This really was a 'no stone left unturned' restoration. The chromework, of which there is plenty, was all re-chromed and the interior was retrimmed in Maroon Connolly Vaumol hide. New woolen carpets were fitted along with a new headlining. Richards of England have done a superb job in restoring this Jaguar to an exemplary standard. Chassis number 860120 is the 120th right hand drive coupe manufactured thus making it a rare model. This outstanding Jaguar is supplied with a V5 registration document, a Jaguar Heritage Certificate and a comprehensive history folder. Interested parties are advised to view this E-Type flat floor in person to fully appreciate the quality of this beautiful example. Consigned by Stewart Banks.