E Type Register

The E-Type was revealed at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1961. Jaguar showed the world their latest sports car the likes of which had never been seen before and unlikely to be seen again. The impact on the motoring press and the motoring public was huge. Few knew that the second car at the launch, an Open Two Seat, was driven all night from Coventry by the Test Driver Norman Dewis and arrived with only enough time for a wash before podium display!

The E-Type took a quantum technological leap from its rich C and D Type heritage. The pure aerodynamic lines were set by master aerodynamicist Malcolm Sayer. Breakthrough development in metal fabrication uncompromisingly realised the E-Type’s lines. Similar to the aerospace industry the monocoque construction, supporting tube steel engine and front suspension frames facilitated production of the eye-catching E-Type shape.

At launch the E-Type was powered by the proven 3.8 litre, twin cam, over head valve, straight 6 cylinder engine. This engine looked as good as it performed. Sixty BHP per litre is still a creditable power output, even by today’s standards. The extensive use of polished aluminium and triple SU carburettors is a sight to behold. It is an instant attraction when the large front hinged bonnet is opened.

The engine was coupled to the strong Moss gearbox. At the rear was the unique Independent Rear Suspension of Formula 1 sophistication with inboard disc brakes.

Eye catching lines, exhilarating acceleration, 150 MPH capability and remarkably modest cost meant that the E-Type had it all Shape, Performance and Price.

The introduction of the 4.2 litre engine in 1964 coupled to the 4-speed Jaguar designed all synchromesh gearbox was well received. The practicality of a 2+2 was offered in 1965 with a 9 inch increase in length and a 2 inch higher roof line.

After a short transition period, the Factory introduced the Series 2 to embody the design changes necessary to comply with evolving safety requirements.

Jaguar has a long history of proving their new engines in their sports cars before introducing the developed refined engines into their saloons. The silky smooth 5.3 litre V12 engine followed this principle. To package the V12 into the low bonnet necessitated widening of the body and flaring the mud guards for wider tyres. The 2+2 length was adopted as common to the Series 3 Open Two Seat as well.

The E-Type has proven to be a timeless creation and evokes the same comments and feeling today as it did it it’s unveiling in 1961. The description of “iconic” is often used. The E-Type is a classic example of the design principle of form following function.

Enzo Ferrari said “the E-Type was the most beautiful car ever made.”

Over the 13 years of production, there were three official Series. They are Series 1, 2 and 3. For a short period there was a transition configuration between the Series 1 and 2 that, over time, has come to be known ‘unofficially’ as the Series ‘1½.’

Within the above broad designations, there are different engine sizes and body configurations. They are:

The pictorial gallery below provides further details of the various E-Type models showing their easily identifying features.

There are also some special interest inclusions at the end.

The pictures have been generously provided by JDCA members.

The Jaguar Drivers Club of Australia was launched on 19th February 1964.

The E-Types and the XKs were initially corralled together In the same Register until early 1986.

Over the years since formation, the Register Secretaries have organised several events for the JDCA while maintaining a focus on the E-Type.

Some of the more significant events included:

• The 25th Anniversary event was an inaugural run from the Cross Roads Hotel to Berrima. More E-Types attended this run than on any previous occasion.
• The Jasper Valley Winery run down the NSW south coast to Berry taking in the winding coast- hugging road was relished by the E-Type drivers.
• The 40th Anniversary celebrated in the grounds of the Thomas Walker Hospital against the backdrop of the sandstone buildings. There was also a run through the historic Hawkesbury region west of Sydney finishing in Dural at the home of E-Type owners from the JDCA.
• The 50th Anniversary (E50) in 2011 included several major events when Australia joined the world in E50 celebrations spread across the year. The cavalcade of 80 E-Types to the National Rally in Canberra was a stand out. Having 80 E-Types travelling in convoy on the highway into Canberra is arguably a world record.

E-Types assembled at Uncle Leo’s before the start of the E 50 Cavalcade

There are currently 200 E-Types recorded in the Club Database with a further 17 known to be owned by members.

The earliest is a 1961 Series 1 3.8 litre Open Two Seat (OTS) “flat floor” and the latest is the 9th of the last 50, a commemorative 1974 Black Series 3 5.3 litre OTS (with hardtop).

The Register is active, organising an annual event on behalf of the Club and complementing this with displays at Club events, “Brekky” runs, Mid-Week Runs to places of interest or just enjoying driving beautiful cars around the attractions of the State of NSW.

As a Committee member, the Register Secretary is the focal point to support members and the general public with whatever is needed to enhance their enjoyment and interest in the iconic E-Type. Communications include web inquiries, magazine articles, Handy Hints items and verbal E-Tips at Club meetings.

Register Secretaries over the years:

References:

Factory-Original Jaguar E-Type by Anders Clausager

JDCA Business Catalyst Database

Australian Jaguar Driver