General Description
As classic cars go, few names evoke as much reverence as the Jaguar E-type. Introduced at the
Geneva Motor Show in 1961, having famously embarked on an exhilarating journey from Coventry,
driven flat-out by Jaguar executive Bob Berry to the Parc des Eaux-Vives in Geneva, and arriving
with mere minutes to spare, its dramatic unveiling set the stage for what would become an
enduring legend that continues to captivate enthusiasts six decades later.
At the heart of the E-type's allure lies its aesthetics. Crafted by Malcolm Sayer, its sculptural
bodywork was hailed by none other than Enzo Ferrari as "the most beautiful car in the world”. Its sleek lines and aerodynamic profile set a new standard for automotive design, and is still
appreciated with as much admiration today as it was then.
Beyond its striking appearance, the E-type was a powerhouse of performance. Equipped with
Jaguar's legendary straight-six XK engine, it claimed the title of the world's fastest production car
upon its release. With a top speed of over 150 mph and acceleration from 0-60 mph in under
seven seconds, it redefined what was possible on the open road.
Innovations such as fully independent suspension, disc brakes, and monocoque construction
further distinguished the E-type from its contemporaries. These features, once reserved for racing
cars, were now available in a production vehicle, setting a new standard for performance and
handling. Perhaps most remarkable was the E-type's accessibility. Priced at half the cost of its
rivals from Ferrari, Porsche, and Aston Martin, it brought world-class performance within reach of a broader audience, cementing its status as an icon of the 1960s.
The E-type evolved through several iterations, spanning from the iconic Series 1, characterised by
its purest form and racing heritage, through the refined Series 2, and culminating in the V12-
powered Series 3, each iteration bearing unique design elements and technological advancements
reflective of its era.
Today, the E-type continues to command attention and admiration. Its timeless design and
unparalleled performance make it a sought-after collector's item, with early 'flat-floor' models, those
with comprehensive histories, and RHD cars particularly prized by enthusiasts. From the gleaming
showroom floors of the 1960s to the prestigious galleries of modern art, its impact on car culture
and design is undeniable, ensuring its place in history for generations to come.
About this specific vehicle
Now, in its 60th year, it’s no surprise that this car has had a storied life, much of which is
extensively documented in the multiple history folders that accompany it. From its origins at
Henley’s London in December 1964, to its most recent ownership, this E-type has received
significant investment in its maintenance over the course of its life, serving as a testament to its custodians over the years.
Acquired in 1988 by Julian Chorley in a state of disrepair, this 1964 Jaguar E-type Series 1 4.2
Open Two Seater underwent an extensive ground-up restoration that spanned nearly a decade. Led by Richard Richardson and his dedicated mechanic, every aspect of this classic was meticulously refurbished to its original heritage specifications, including reuniting the car with its original registration plate, 404 EAN.
Presenting today in its original Opalescent Silver Blue hue, under the bonnet lies a robust
naturally-aspirated inline 6-cylinder petrol engine, meticulously rebuilt during the restoration process. This powerhouse delivers impressive performance, propelling the E-type to a top speed of 151 mph and achieving a 0-60 acceleration in just seven seconds.
During its restoration, it had a 5-speed gearbox conversion, alongside subtle enhancements which were made to improve both performance and comfort. These included the addition of an electric fan, stainless steel exhaust, tubular manifold, and a blue mohair hood. Complementing its exterior blue colour, the interior has been completely re-trimmed to match the car's original specifications, providing a luxurious and comfortable driving experience. The attention to detail even extends to the suspension, which features torsion bar front suspension and coil spring rear suspension, offering a perfect balance of road-holding prowess and ride comfort.
This lovely E-type has been meticulously maintained and cared for, with records documenting its restoration and ownership history. With its rich provenance and stunning aesthetics, it represents a rare opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts alike to own a piece of automotive history, and whether displayed in a collection or enjoyed on the open road, this iconic Jaguar promises to turn heads wherever it goes.
