1963 Jaguar E-Type 'Series 1' Roadster
Registration no. 604 AW
Chassis no. 1E1967
Engine no. 7D51273-8

Introduced in 3.8-litre form in 1961, the Jaguar E-Type caused a sensation when it appeared, with instantly classic lines and 150mph top speed. The newcomer's design did indeed owe much to that of the Le Mans-winning D-Type sports-racer: a monocoque tub forming the main structure, while a tubular spaceframe extended forwards to support the engine. The latter was the same 3.8-litre, triple-carburettor 'S' unit first offered as an option on the preceding XK150. With a claimed 265bhp available E-Type's performance did not disappoint; firstly, because it weighed around 500lbs less than the XK150 and secondly because aerodynamicist Malcolm Sayer used experience gained with the D-Type to create one of the most elegant and efficient shapes ever to grace a motor car. Taller drivers though, could find the interior somewhat lacking in space, a criticism addressed by the introduction of foot wells (and other, more minor modifications) early in 1962.

Today, the E-Types graceful lines live on in modern Jaguar sports cars, and there can be little doubt that William Lyons' sublime creation would feature in any knowledgeable enthusiast's 'Top Ten' of the world's most beautiful cars of all time.

This fabulous E-Type Series 1 roadster was sold new to the Sultan of Brunei and since then has passed through the hands of some of this country's best known connoisseurs of fine motor cars. Its second owner converted the E-Type for racing and it was hill-climbed by both Nigel Bourne and next owner Oliver Walker. Mr Walker then returned the car to road-going specification, with an engine rebuild by Forward Engineering, bodywork by RS Panels and interior trim by Suffolk & Turley. The Forward Engineering 4.5-litre engine produces upwards of 320bhp and features triple Weber carburettors, lightweight con-rods and a stainless 'bunch of bananas' exhaust. Other noteworthy features include a synchromesh gearbox, 'organic' clutch, up-rated ventilated brakes, Spax shock absorbers, lowered suspension, Dunlop alloy wheels, replica Lightweight E-Type seats and much more.

Next owned by Peter Hampton, the E-Type was sold via Nigel Dawes to Victor Gauntlett, former Aston Martin CEO whose favourite car it is reputed to have been, and then to Lord Bamford (then Sir Anthony Bamford). Its next owner, racing driver and motor dealer Frank Sytner, described this car as 'A D-Type for the road'. Mr Sytner sold the car circa 1997 to the immediately preceding owner, Tim Greenhill. A gentleman motor dealer, the current vendor has been involved with the Jaguar E-Type since its inception and recognised that this was one of unique quality that fully deserved its place in his collection.

In 2000 the car received a bare metal re-spray in Gunmetal Grey at RS Panels, the engine being overhauled and treated to an unleaded conversion by Ron Beatty, the original engine builder. The car also benefits from up-rated rear disc brakes and electric cooling fans. Regular maintenance has been undertaken by Marcus Barclay, Ian Nuthall, John Pearson, Barry Beeson and Robin Lackford; parts replaced recently including the alternator, distributor and brake servo, with the most recent work taking place in January 2015 at a cost of circa £7,000 including attention to the brakes, suspension and sub-frame (bills on file).

This is a driver's car that will be enjoyed by the knowledgeable connoisseur as all the modifications are 'in period'. It is not a modern hotrod dressed up in E-Type clothes, and as such is pure fun. Remarkably, we are advised that it is as much at home in city traffic as it is on the open road. Used regularly, the car has been used for one rally in the South of France and one in Scotland plus some local journeys, and has been well looked after at all times. Accompanying paperwork consists of sundry restoration invoices, a V5C registration document and fresh MoT certificate.