The Jaguar E-Type was born in 1961 from the mind of Malcom Sayer, who worked on its design together with William Lyons; the two were already well-known within the British company for other prestigious projects.
Mr Sayer’s task was to replace the glorious XK150, and he was immediately aware of his success: the introduction of the E was welcomed by a unanimous chorus of approval.
This Jaguar’s aerodynamic and elegant lines also hid first-class technical contents, such as the monocoque structure, the four disc brakes and the independent rear suspension. Jaguar had once again hit the mark, and the Geneva Motor Show immediately saw a record of preorders, also thanks to the price much lower than the competition’s (Porsche and Ferrari, for instance), while still boasting first-rate performance: a top speed of 240 km/h and excellent roadholding. Its success was unquestionably confirmed a month later, with the launch of the Roadster version.

Series 1
The Series 1 (of three made) was equipped with a 3,800 cc I6 that put out 265 hp.
It was the beginning of a myth.

White-glove treatment
Lowering myself into the Jaguar E-Type Roadster ’s seat is not easy at all, since I have to deal with a cramped passenger area, a seat close to the ground that cannot be adjusted, and a large briar-root wheel that doesn’t leave much leg room.
Then… everything fades and I am plunged in red leather, suddenly finding myself in the era of competitions and Gentlemen Drivers.
The murmur of the 3.8 L engine, so impatient at low speeds, at once urges me to step on the gas for a more sporty driving style. The Series 1’s four-speed transmission, rather difficult to engage, makes this Jaguar even more fascinating. The Jaguar E-Type Roadster does not simply indulge anyone: it needs to be listened to, and treated with kid gloves.