1962 Jaguar E-Type Series One Flat-Floor Roadster

It is difficult to imagine the impact that the Jaguar E-type had when it was launched back in 1961. When the average saloon had a top speed of 70 mph and most were desperately dull, the E-type was an instant sensation, pre-empting computer aided design. The pre-eminent aero dynamist, Malcom Sayer, uniquely applied complex mathematical formulae to create the stunning E-type shape. Ironically he hated being called a stylist, yet he designed what is arguably one of the most beautiful cars ever seen. Today, manufacturers build hundreds of prototypes when developing a new car; Jaguar built just a handful of cars prior to launch and the story of the E-type is now legendary around the globe.

This particular E-Type Roadster has been the recipient of significant restorative works at no fewer than three occasions in its history. An original UK righthand drive car, it was supplied by Henlys Ltd of London to a Mr D.H. Merifield of London SW9 on 16th February 1962. Today, it remains Opalescent Dark Green in colour with a black hood as it was from new and retains period-correct 3.8 litre powerplant, though not believed to be the same numbered unit as 1962.

This special flat-floor E-Type was first restored in 1993 under the stewardship of then owner, Mr N Swales of Derbyshire. At this time, the generous history file which accompanies this car shows evidence of a new bonnet and outer panels, the refurbishment of the original bulkhead and its fitment of this to the sub-assembly. Many invoices from the likes of Martin Robey engineering evidence the types of work that was undertaken to this car during 1993 and 1994.

Later, between 2008 and 2011 further bodily and mechanical works were undertaken at the hands of engineer, Dick Bradley of Essex, utilising SNG Barratt spares and culminating in a full repaint of the car at a cost in excess of £8,500.

Finally, since early 2013 and in the hands of respected classic car restoration craftsman, Spellbound Cars of Farnham, chassis #850394 was once again stripped to bare metal, sculpted, panel-beaten and lead-loaded where necessary. Next to be addressed and fitted were a new A-section and bottom sill as well as boot floor, lid and scuttle before all panels and joints being lead-finished, expertly aligned and painted in house to an extremely high standard. Repairs were made to the inside of the doors to improve the window function, new door trims were fashioned, fabricated and installed and all brightwork was rechromed.

Such is the standard of this car, Spellbound Cars are prepared to offer a 12 month or 6,000 mile parts and labour warranty on this E-Type, whichever occurs sooner. This is a very unusual offering for an auction vehicle but goes a long way to assure us, and hopefully you, of the quality of this car.

The many years of consistent maintenance and the culmination of the Spellbound Cars restoration has stemmed a truly exceptional example of the Jaguar marque, offered with MoT test certificate, UK V5C and 100% primed and ready for the 2014 motoring season. Don't hesitate to own such a car.