1963 JAGUAR XK-E CONVERTIBLE

Jaguar’s racing success in the 50s was based on a series of cars originally inspired by the Alfa Romeo Touring Disco Volante (the “Flying Plate”) and its success at the Le Mans 24 Hours. From the XK 120 C, the racing version of the XK 120, came the Jaguar D-type, and in 1957 came prototype E1As. This was designed by Sir William Lyons, Jaguar’s chairman, with aerodynamics expert Malcolm Sayer and engineer Bob Knight: it had a monocoque body, an XK engine and independent rear suspension. In 1960 came the racing prototype E2A: this again had a 3-liter (183 cu.in.) XK engine fitted with fuel injection, was fitted with an aluminum body on a steel chassis and raced at Le Mans before being sent to the US.

The E-Type Jaguar, known as the XK-E in the United States, was introduced in March 1961 at the Geneva Motor Show in Switzerland. The two-seater GT-style Fixed Head Coupe (FHC) and the two-seater convertible Open Two Seater (OTS) models for export were introduced in April 1961 at the New York International Motor Show. However, it also reached the English market four months later, in July 1961. The E-Type’s price was less than half that of the Aston Martin DB4 GT, with a higher performance and better dynamics. The original 3.8 liter (230.7 cu.in.) 6-cylinder engine was used from 1961 to 1964. In October 1964, a new, more powerful 4.2 liter (258 cu.in) XK engine with higher torque, and a better transmission and brakes was announced. 1966 saw the introduction of the long chassis, four-seater coupe 2+2 and the Series 2, with headlights having no glass protection as per the 1968 legislation in the US, and with larger and higher rear bumper with turn signal and taillight below. In 1971, the Series 3 appeared, using the new light-alloy 272 bhp 325 cu.in. V12 engine, and this model remained in production for four years. 72,515 cars were sold from 1961 to 1975. Recognised as the most beautiful sports car of the 1960s and one of the 100 most beautiful automobiles in the world, this XK-E was brought to our Museum from the United States where the roadster (OTS) was called a convertible.