- Genuine Factory Outside bonnet lock, one of the defining and most collectible E-Type configurations
- One of just 385 Left-Hand-Drive outside bonnet lock roadsters produced
- Powered by the legendary 3.8-litre XK straight-six engine
- Comprehensively restored by a renowned German specialist in its original - Black exterior colour
- Striking presentation and colour combination
- Highly desirable specification for collectors

In 1961, an E-Type arriving in New York represented something genuinely new. The model had just been introduced, and American enthusiasts were among the first international customers to experience Jaguar’s revolutionary new sports car

The first half of the 1960s was one of the most important periods in Jaguar’s history.

The Coventry manufacturer entered the decade with an exceptional reputation, built upon the success of the XK sports cars and the competition achievements of the C-Type and D-Type.

Jaguar’s victories at Le Mans during the 1950s had established the company not only as a manufacturer of elegant road cars, but also as one of the world’s leading specialists in high-performance engineering.

The early Series 1 E-Type was powered by Jaguar’s legendary 3.8-litre XK twin-cam straight-six engine, producing approximately 265 bhp and offering remarkable performance for its era.

With independent suspension, four-wheel disc brakes and a sophisticated monocoque construction, the E-Type was technically advanced as well as visually revolutionary.

The Roadster, or Open Two Seater (OTS), is particularly admired for its purity of design. The earliest examples are distinguished by a number of highly desirable details, including the characteristic outside bonnet lock, covered headlights, flat floors and other early-production features. These cars represent the very first chapter.

The earliest cars, produced during 1961 and into the beginning of 1962, are particularly coveted by collectors.

These cars featured the celebrated flat-floor configuration, welded bonnet louvers and external bonnet latches, details that were subsequently changed as production evolved.

The initial production run comprised just 500 Outside Bonnet Lock E-Types, of which just 385 were left-hand-drive Open Two Seaters (Roadsters).

ABOUT THIS SPECIFIC EXAMPLE

The story of this remarkable Jaguar E-Type begins on 4 July 1961, when the car was completed by Jaguar in England.

This example therefore belongs to the very early production period of the legendary Series I.

Built in left-hand-drive specification, the car was intended from the outset for an international market.

Just ten days after its completion, on 14 July 1961, the Jaguar was officially dispatched.

The factory records identify the first owner as Mrs. Julia B. F. Singleton and its original distributor as Jaguar Cars, New York, USA.

In 1961, an E-Type arriving in New York represented something genuinely new. The model had just been introduced, and American enthusiasts were among the first international customers to experience Jaguar’s revolutionary new sports car.

Over the decades that followed, the Jaguar passed through the hands of subsequent custodians.

Although the complete chain of ownership is not presently documented in the available information, the surviving Jaguar factory records available with the car preserve the most important details.

A significant chapter in the car’s later history began around 2017, when it was acquired by G&S Roadster, the German specialists in classic British sports cars based in Landau in der Pfalz.

Under their care, the car underwent a complete rebuild, with particular attention paid to both its mechanical integrity and its period character.

The finished car presents an especially appealing specification, featuring outside bonnet latches, a black fabric soft top, and beautifully contrasting red leather seats.

Completing the package is a stainless-steel exhaust system, combining long-term durability with a suitably sporting appearance.

The result is a carefully restored E-Type that retains the elegance and character of the original while benefiting from the considered attention of a marque specialist.

CONDITION EXTERIOR

The exterior presents in excellent restored condition, with the bodywork displaying clean, well-defined lines and a high-quality finish.

The black paintwork gives the car a particularly elegant and purposeful appearance, complemented by the brightwork and distinctive details of the Series 1 E-Type.

The panel fit and overall presentation are very pleasing, while the black fabric soft top completes the car’s classic sporting aesthetic.

CONDITION INTERIOR

The interior has been beautifully restored and presents in very appealing condition.

The rich red leather upholstery is particularly striking, offering a classic and sporting contrast to the black exterior.

The seats and interior trim are neatly finished, while the dashboard retains the unmistakable character of the original E-Type.

Overall, the interior combines elegance, authenticity and a high level of presentation, reflecting the quality of the restoration.

DRIVING EXPERIENCE

Behind the wheel, this early E-Type delivers the kind of driving experience that made the model an instant legend.

The 3.8-litre XK straight-six is smooth, responsive and full of character.

The light steering, low seating position and beautifully balanced chassis create an immediate sense of connection with the car, while the independent suspension and four-wheel disc brakes underline just how advanced the E-Type was for its time.

With the roof lowered, the long bonnet stretching out ahead and the engine pulling strongly through the gears, the experience is both engaging and remarkably special.

This particular example combines the raw, analogue character of an early outside-bonnet-lock E-Type with the confidence and composure afforded by its comprehensive specialist restoration.

Disclaimer
The information provided on this website has been compiled by The Houtkamp Collection with the utmost care. The information contained within this advert is provided ‘as-is’, without warranties as to its accuracy whether expressed or implied and is intended for informational purposes only. The Houtkamp Collection is not liable for any errors or mistakes.