As Jaguar transitions to an all-electric lineup, the era of combustion-engine-powered cars is coming to a close. However, for those nostalgic for a brand-new yet vintage Jaguar with a gas-guzzling leaping cat emblem, Jaguar Classic is here to fulfill your dreams. A recent example is a 'loyal, discerning client in Southeast Asia' who commissioned a pair of E-Types. This led to the creation of the Commemorative version, marking 50 years since the production of the iconic roadster ended.
Using original blueprints from the 1961 Series I to the Series III launched a decade later, Jaguar Classic meticulously built the E-Type Commemorative duo from the ground up. These cars specifically pay homage to the Commemorative Edition, a special version of 50 units sold in 1974 to commemorate the end of production. One is finished in Signet Green and the other in Opal Black, reflecting the colors offered half a century ago.
These are the only truly new E-Types built since then, as previous projects have been restorations of existing cars. Power is provided by a 3.8-liter inline-six engine, now equipped with electronic fuel injection instead of the original triple carburetors. Additionally, the old four-speed manual gearbox has been replaced with a more modern five-speed unit. Jaguar Classic reports that over 2,000 hours were needed to implement all the upgrades over the classic car. Other enhancements include a heated windscreen and even a Bluetooth radio.
Beyond the mechanical updates, the E-Type Commemorative features Bridge of Weir tan leather seats with hand-woven upholstery, a first for Jaguar Classic. The interior is complemented by black and tan leather trim. The pièce de résistance is the anodized aluminium center console, engraved with an E-Type Series I blueprint.
Deakin & Francis, Britain’s oldest manufacturing jeweler, was responsible for the solid silver and 18-carat gold details. Knurled silver was used for the instrument panel switches, enhancing the interior's luxurious feel. The drophead coupe's interior is a masterpiece, blending the finest materials Jaguar Classic could source.
While the cost of these cars remains undisclosed, it's safe to assume they far exceed the £295,000 (or $383,000 in today's money) price tag of the E-Type Reborn launched in 2017. This is due to the Reborn being a full restoration of an existing car, whereas the E-Type Commemorative is built from scratch.
In 2021, Jaguar Classic revisited the E-Type, often hailed as the world's most beautiful car, with the E-Type 60 Collection. This special edition consisted of six coupes and six roadsters, comprehensively restored to echo the launch cars from the 1961 Geneva Motor Show.
Source link: https://www.motor1.com
