1962 | Jaguar E-Type 3.8

The Jaguar E-Type Series 1 3.8 Fixed-Head Coupe, introduced in 1961, is celebrated for its stunning design, exceptional performance, and advanced engineering. Designed by Malcolm Sayer, its aerodynamic shape features a long bonnet, glass-covered headlights, and a sleek fastback roofline. The interior combines classic British sports car aesthetics with luxurious touches, including leather scallop bucket seats and a wood-rimmed steering wheel.

Powered by a 3.8-litre inline-six engine with 265 horsepower, the E-Type accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of around 150 mph. It features a four-speed manual Moss gearbox and advanced independent suspension for superior handling. Notable innovations include its semi-monocoque construction and four-wheel disc brakes.

The E-Type's design and performance were influenced by Jaguar's racing success, particularly the D-Type, and it remains a cultural icon, favoured by celebrities and frequently appearing in media. Highly sought after by collectors, the E-Type Series 1 3.8 Fixed-head Coupe is a timeless masterpiece in automotive history, admired for its beauty, performance, and historical significance.

This 1962 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 3.8 Fixed-head Coupe is available for purchase at Hilton & Moss, finished in its stunning original shade of Carmen Red with a Black leather interior.

Believed to have been fitted from new with a ‘flat floor’ and with a serial number that falls just outside the official flat floor numbering, it is believed this car is a cross-over model. A well-known Jaguar specialist/historian was consulted regarding the floor, and he is confident that the floor is correct, making it indeed a cross-over car. There were several of these, including one known to have one flat floor on one side and one dished floor pan on the other side. Another of these fascinating cross-over cars is believed to have been one of Dunlop's test cars from the period.

This car was dispatched on February 7th to its first owner, Mr. J. G. Raenk, in Northern Rhodesia. In 1981, it moved to South Africa and remained in excellent condition before its return to the UK in 2002.

Upon its return to the UK, the car underwent a no-expense-spared restoration in 2007, costing £60,000. The car comes with a fantastic photographic record documenting its extensive rebuild by its then-fastidious owner. The photographs show the level of commitment devoted to this work, which included a full bare-metal respray to its original Carmen Red colour, considered by many to be one of the best colours for an E-Type.

In December 2008, the car was bought by its most recent owner, a long-term E-Type club member. From 2008 to 2021, Roger Cadman maintained the car, replacing rear discs, adding a high-torque starter, tuning, general maintenance and servicing.

In August 2021, the current owner instructed a well-known Jaguar specialist to restore the car after 13 years of enjoyment, investing a further £100,000 into the car. The specialist was instructed to upgrade the radio system to a Bluetooth MP3 player, install electronic ignition, and overhaul the rear hub assemblies. The brake bellows were reinstated, and the later servo was removed. The aftermarket Webasto sunroof was also removed. The car was fully repainted again and benefited from a partial retrim, including the headlining. New tyres and a new clutch were also fitted, and the original Moss gearbox was reconditioned.

In 2023, Hilton & Moss completed a full engine rebuild whilst also cosmetically restoring the engine at the same time.

A full list of recent work includes:

- Fresh engine rebuild and dyno work

- Gearbox overhaul

- 4.2 clutch adaptation

- Brake system overhaul

- All coolant hoses replaced with silicone hoses

- Radiator and fan replaced with upgraded components

- Auto electric fan

- Front suspension ball joint boots replaced

- Negative earth conversion

- New fuel pump

- New Bluetooth interface and amplifier

- Full repaint

- New anti-roll bar bushes

- OSR splined hub and bearing seals

- 4 x new tires

The car is presented in fantastic condition, having covered less than 1,000 miles since the recent restoration works. Included with the car is the Jaguar Heritage Trust certification confirming the car's authenticity as a matching numbers vehicle. The car also benefits from a comprehensive leather-bound history file with supporting invoices for all work carried out.

Since the restoration, the car has been entrusted to Hilton & Moss for regular maintenance in preparation for sale.

This E-Type not only looks stunning but is also very usable, reflecting the commitment to both aesthetic and mechanical excellence. An underside inspection can be arranged upon request for additional peace of mind during the purchasing process.

Available now for viewing and demonstration at our Bishop’s Stortford showrooms.