1966 Jaguar XKE E-Type Roadster

The Jaguar nameplate of Coventry, England began with the Swallow Sidecar Company, founded by William Lyon in the late 1920's as a manufacturer of motorcycle sidecars. By 1931, they turned to producing special bodies for sporting cars. In 1935, the SS100 began the line of Jaguar cars. This put them on the map with enthusiasts, and was the start of a long line of beautiful sport cars and sedans. The company was renamed Jaguar Cars Ltd. after WWII.

In 1948, a new 3.4-liter 160 horsepower six-cylinder engine was designed for the sedans, and was showcased in what was expected to be a limited production car, the XK-120. But, the XK-120 created a sensation, and was rushed to market. Subsequent 140 and 150 models evolved into the D-Type, and the D-Type racing version evolved into the production E-Type. The E-Type was a huge hit when introduced in 1961 at the Geneva Auto Show as a convertible and fastback coupe. It remained in production through 1974, with a total of 72,500 cars made in three series, using two engines and three body styles.

This E-Type was one of 7,772 coupes made. It features a 4.2-liter (258 cubic-inch), 265 horsepower engine and a four-speed transmission, and a weight of 2,520 lbs. Top speed is 150 mph. Its P.O.E. price was $5,580. Jaguar's Design Studio fabrication shop in Coventry, England has restored several of the interior trim pieces for the current owner, who has had the car for 12 years.