Skip advert
Advertisement

Jaguar E-Type

Built: 1961-75, number sold: 13,490, cool cat factor: 5/5

Jaguar

The E-Type is the car that typified the swinging Sixties! Launched at the 1961 Geneva Motor Show, its gorgeous lines were inspired by the D-Type racer. As a result the Series I model is the most beautiful Jaguar road car ever in the eyes of many.

Crucially, it had the performance to match its stunning looks and was a genuine 160mph car. Its pace was sensational for the period and it was also considerably cheaper than any other comparable rival. It handled well, too – the steel monocoque was stiff and the light, sharp steering impressed.

Having only planned to build 250 cars, Jaguar was shocked by the level of demand, as pop stars, racing drivers and even royalty made it the most fashionable car of its era.

The 3.8-litre straight six engine was replaced by a 4.2-litre version in 1964, and in 1966 demand for a more practical version saw the launch of the two-plus-two, alongside the existing two-seater coupé and roadster models.

The Series II arrived in 1968 with higher bumpers and much bigger rear lights. Six-cylinder models went out of production in 1971, and the V12 Series III took over.

The red 2+2 in our photos is a great example of an early V12, and while it’s not the most fondly remembered model, there’s no denying the E-Type is one of Britain’s ever greatest cars.

Details

WHY: Classic cat is considered by many the most striking car ever

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan

RRP £35,385Avg. savings £2,911 off RRP*Used from £14,900
Audi A3

Audi A3

RRP £26,295Avg. savings £2,510 off RRP*Used from £11,695
Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson

RRP £29,820Avg. savings £5,115 off RRP*Used from £14,500
Renault Clio

Renault Clio

RRP £16,160Avg. savings £2,721 off RRP*Used from £8,699
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Car Deal of the Day: Sacre bleu! The Renault 5 keeps getting cheaper
Renault 5 - front full width

Car Deal of the Day: Sacre bleu! The Renault 5 keeps getting cheaper

The modern-day Super Cinq comes with a super price. It’s our Deal of the Day for 14 May
News
14 May 2025
Want a new small car? You probably can’t afford one and car bosses blame the EU
Luca de Meo - Renault 5

Want a new small car? You probably can’t afford one and car bosses blame the EU

Renault and Stellantis bosses demand changes to the emissions rules driving up new car prices
News
15 May 2025
Best electric cars 2025: the top 10 best EVs you can buy
Best electric cars header

Best electric cars 2025: the top 10 best EVs you can buy

Thinking about making the switch to an electric vehicle? Here are the EVs that should be on your shortlist, and why…
Best cars & vans
14 May 2025