Jaguar E-Type (1970)

The E-Type was initially designed and shown to the public as a grand tourer in two-seater coupé form (FHC or Fixed Head Coupé) and as convertible (OTS or Open Two Seater). The 2+2 version with a lengthened wheelbase was released several years later. The model was made in three distinct versions which are now generally referred to as "Series 1", "Series 2" and "Series 3". A transitional series between Series 1 and Series 2 is known unofficially as "Series 1½".

The Series 1 was introduced, initially for export only, in March 1961. The domestic market launch came four months later in July 1961. The cars at this time used the triple SU carburetted 3.8 litre straight 6 engine from the XK150S. The first 500 cars built had flat floors and external hood (bonnet) latches. These cars are rare and more valuable. After that, the floors were dished to provide more leg room and the twin hood latches moved to inside the car. The 3.8 litre engine was increased to 4.2 litres in October 1964.

Series 2 was produced from 1968 to 1970. It is easy to recognize from the front: the headlights have lost their glass-framed protection. The brevity of its existence is justified by the fact that the American market, which represented 80% of sales, was subject to the adoption of extremely strict safety rules. It is the series III, with a revisited structure, which succeeds it until 1975, date on which the XJS appears.

- Specifications
- _Bodywork_
- Length : cm (in): 445 (175.2)
- Width : cm (in): 163 (64.3)
- Height : cm (in): 122 (48)
- Wheelbase : cm (in) : 244 (96)
- Weight: kg (lb) : 1140 (2520)
- _Mechanics._
- Displacement : straight-six 4235 cc (257 cu in), front-mounted
- Valve gear : 12
- Fuel system : 2 Stromberg HD8 carburettors
- Gearbox : 4-speed mnual
- Drive wheels : rear-wheel drive
- Maximum power : 246 hp at 5400 rpm
- Maximum torque : 384 Nm at 4000 pm
- Top speed : 236 km/h (143 mph)