1962 Jaguar E-Type XKE Roadster

When Jaguar introduced its E-Type convertible, it came with an MSRP of $2,454, which was $1,500 less than a Chevrolet Convertible and nearly $20,000 less than a Ferrari 250 GT. Even though it was shorter than the XK150 it replaced, the cockpit provided more interior space for its occupants. Along with attractive styling and plenty of performance, it had covered headlights, small taillights, a long hood, and seating for two. It had independent suspension at all four corners, with torsion bars in the front and coil-over shocks in the back. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system along with four-wheel Dunlop disc brakes. The back brakes were inboard by the differential. The body was a monocoque back from the firewall, with large boxed sill and cross braces. Carrying the engine was a tube sub-frame which bolted on to the firewall. The engine, with its triple SU carburetors, offered 150 mph top speed and 265 horsepower.

The early examples had a welded louver panel on each side of the hood. After 500 examples were produced, the bonnet latches were moved inside.

This Jaguar Series 1 3.8 Roadster has been treated to a very recent restoration. It has had limited ownership and spent most of its life on the west coast. It is finished in its original Carmen Red and black interior, and has a new black convertible top.

By Daniel Vaughan | Feb 2015