Lot 223 - 1964 Jaguar E-Type Series I Fixedhead Coupé (3.8 litre)
| Lot Number | 223 |
| Registration | BHE 807B |
| Chassis Number | 889863 |
| Engine Number | RA 5104-0 |
| Odometer reading | 95,953 miles |
| Result | Sold |
- Retains original engine
- Gearbox rebuilt in March 2022
- Painted in stunning Aston Martin California Sage
- From a 16 year ownership
Introduced in 1961 in 3.8 litre form, the Jaguar E-Type caused a sensation when it appeared with instantly classic lines and 150mph top speed. While, inevitably, the car's stupendous straight-line performance and gorgeous looks grabbed the headlines, there was a lot more to the E-Type beneath the skin. The newcomer's design owed much to that of the racing D-Type and, indeed, the E-Type would be one of the last great sports cars developed directly from a successful competition ancestor. Just as in the D-Type, a monocoque tub formed the main body/chassis structure while a tubular space frame 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 265 horsepower on tap, the E-Type's performance did not disappoint. Firstly, because it weighed around 250Kg 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 motorcar.
Those with a keen eye will notice this car is not wearing a Jaguar colour, it has in fact been painted in Aston Martin California Sage and it looks all the better for it. The respray was clearly carried out to a high standard but was finished a number of years ago and is now starting to show its age in a few places. The car was originally supplied to New York in Silver Grey with Light Blue interior but was first registered in the UK in 1987 and it was then converted to right hand drive. Our vendor purchased the car in 2007 and has covered just under 10,000 miles in that time. The gearbox was rebuilt in March 2022 using synchromesh internals to improve useability and the car retains its original engine, confirmed by a Jaguar Daimler Heritage Certificate. An early 3.8-litre E-Type with a synchromesh gearbox is possibly the best specification, pairing the useability of later cars with synchromesh with the un-matched style of the early cars with attractive bucket seats and toggle switch dashboard. This example is offered with a very sensible estimate and is sure to generate good interest.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.