As you delve into the iconic E-Type, you’ll likely wonder which years are the best and worst. The answer lies in a delicate balance of performance, design, and desirability.
While the 1961’s rev-happy engine and sleek design make it a top contender, the 1971 model’s larger and heavier build makes it less desirable. What sets these models apart, and how do factors like upgrades and restoration impact their appeal? You’re about to discover.
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Key Takeaways
- The 1965 Fixed-Head Coupé is considered one of the best years, with prices ranging from £32,000 to £94,500.
- Series 1.5 cars, balancing affordability and desirability, are a good choice, with prices from £12,000 to £97,200 for an immaculate Roadster.
- The 4.2-liter Series 1 stands out for its increased torque and all-synchromesh Jaguar transmission, making it a desirable option.
- Post-1964 models are more affordable, with the 2+2 Coupé offering a practical option, valued from £16,000 to £58,500.
- The worst years are often subject to personal preference, but generally, the earlier models are more sought after and valuable.
History and Design
As you plunge into the history and design of the Jaguar E-type, you’re immediately struck by the car’s launch on March 15, 1961, at the Parc Des Eaux Vives in Geneva, which marked a major step forward for the automotive industry in the 1960s.
The E-type’s design was influenced by the 1950s and symbolized the Swinging Sixties. Enzo Ferrari reportedly called it “the most beautiful car ever made.”
The Jaguar E-type’s design blends common sense, art appreciation, and aesthetics, resulting in a masterpiece that’s “achingly beautiful” and “absolutely functional.”
Series-Specific Information
You’ll find that Jaguar’s E-type series are distinct and cater to specific needs and budgets.
As a buying guide, the 4.2-litre Series 1 stands out with its increased torque, all-synchromesh Jaguar transmission.
Post-1964 models are more affordable, with a 1965 Fixed-Head Coupé priced between £32,000 and £94,500.
The 2+2 Coupé offers a practical option, valued from £16,000 to £58,500.
Series 1.5 cars balance affordability and desirability, with prices ranging from £12,000 to £97,200 for an immaculate Roadster.
Desirability Factors and Options
When considering an E-type, you’ll want to consider the car’s overall appeal, and that’s where engine choices and body style options come into play.
The 3.8-liter and 4.2-liter engines offer distinct driving experiences, while the Series 1.5 cars provide a balance of price and performance.
As you weigh your options, you’ll need to think about what matters most in an E-type.
Engine Options
The heart of any Jaguar E-Type is its engine, and you’re spoiled for choice with three distinct options.
The 3.8-litre engine is rev-happy, making it a desirable option, with a more taut and responsive nature compared to the 4.2-litre engine.
The 4.2-litre engine is torquier and less rev-happy, but retains its character, offering a sonorous bellow and implicit power.
You won’t find a 2-litre or 8-litre engine in an E-Type, but the V12 engine provides glorious power and sound, complementing the car’s larger character, available in the Series 3 model.
Body Style Choices
Beyond the engine options, the Jaguar E-Type’s style choices are a crucial aspect of its desirability, with various factors influencing the value and appeal of each model. You’ll find that Series 1, Series 1.5, and Series 2 models offer distinct characteristics. The 2+2 Coupé is the most affordable Series 1, while the Roadster is the most coveted.
| Series | Characteristics | |
|---|---|---|
| Series 1 | More torque, improved brakes | £12,000 – £97,200 |
| Series 1.5 | Sweet spot for buyers | £12,000 – £70,800 |
| Series 2 | Best six-cylinder to drive | £16,000 – £70,800 |
| Series 3 | Visual departure, rudimentary differentiator | £16,000 – £70,800 |
| 2+2 Coupé | Most affordable Series 1 | £16,000 – £70,800 |
Upgrades, Restorations, and Potential Issues
With the E-type’s impressive performance capabilities, you may find yourself considering ways to further boost your driving experience.
Upgrades can augment braking, cooling, and other areas, although you’ll likely retain your five-speed gearbox.
Restomods offer high-end overhauls, increasing the value of your E-type.
Aftermarket parts facilitate restorations, making the E-type a great candidate.
However, be aware that the monocoque chassis can hide underlying rust, requiring thorough examinations, especially in areas like floorpans, door sills, and boot floors.
Regular maintenance is vital to avoid engine rebuilds and clutch replacements, which can be costly.
The E-type’s Performance and Handling
As you step on the gas, you’ll experience its impressive power and acceleration, making it a leader in its class.
When you take a sharp turn, you’ll appreciate its cornering and handling, thanks to its advanced mechanical specifications and independent rear suspension.
With its blend of craft and performance at an affordable price, you’ll understand why the E-type is a favorite among racing drivers.
Cornering and Handling
How does a car that’s over 50 years old still manage to deliver a ride that’s both comfortable and exhilarating?
The E-type’s independent suspension plays a significant role, providing a comfortable ride and superb roadholding.
However, its narrow track can affect handling on certain routes.
Upgrading torsion bars, shocks, and bushings can improve handling and ride, making the car more responsive to your input.
The power-steering option, introduced in Series 2, makes the car more manageable in tight corners and low-speed maneuvering, reducing driver fatigue.
Power and Acceleration
You’re behind the wheel of an iconic Jaguar E-type, ready to uncage its potent powerplant.
The 3781cc in-line six-cylinder engine roars to life, producing 260lb ft of torque at 4000rpm.
With the all-synchro four-speed manual, you’ll smoothly shift gears, accelerating from 0-60mph in just 7.8 seconds.
The E-type’s 265bhp allows you to reach a top speed of 149mph, making it a thrill ride.
Get ready to experience the rush of adrenaline as you tap into the E-type’s impressive power and acceleration.
The E-type’s Comfort, and Practicality
What makes the E-type a more practical choice for daily driving?
You’ll find the car’s interior is roomy and protective, with a sense of being shielded from the outside world.
- The seats offer more cushioning and comfort, with better visibility down the bonnet.
- The coupé has a capacious rear deck and runners, providing more practical boot space than the roadster.
- The Series 1 4.2 model has a more modern and comfortable interior, making it a more practical option for owners.
- While the roadster’s storage capacity is limited, it’s ideal for triangular luggage.
The E-type’s Overall Appeal and Value
Beyond its comfort and practicality, the E-type’s overall appeal and value lie in its perfect blend of craft and performance at an affordable price, making it a car worth every penny.
You can choose from a range of models, from the Series 1 4.2 to the Series 3 V12, offering a good all-rounder for most days.
As a rare classic car, the E-type’s value increases with a comprehensive history and factory RHD status, with limited editions or cars with an interesting history, its value can range from £53,900 to £8 million over the years.
When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Jaguar I-Pace, Jaguar S-Type, Jaguar F-Pace and Jaguar XK. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.
