The Jaguar E-Type, lauded by Enzo Ferrari as the most beautiful car ever made, remains a symbol of automotive elegance and sophistication. Its design, a blend of sleek lines and meticulous craftsmanship, continues to captivate enthusiasts even after more than half a century since its debut in 1961. Recognizing the ongoing fascination with this classic model, Jaguar Classic has been producing official replicas and continuation cars that pay homage to this legendary vehicle. The latest addition to this lineage is the Jaguar Classic E-Type Commemorative—two meticulously crafted cars that celebrate the 50th anniversary of the last E-Type to roll off the production line.
The two new E-Type Commemoratives are not simple restoration projects; they are new builds that reflect the legacy of the original models. Created for a private collector in Southeast Asia, these continuation cars are a nod to the final Series III E-Type from 1974 while incorporating design elements from earlier iterations. Jaguar Classic aimed to deliver an authentic yet refined experience, blending vintage aesthetics with modern technology. The result is a pair of vehicles that are as much a piece of art as they are high-performance sports cars.
One of the most striking aspects of the Jaguar Classic E-Type Commemorative editions is the attention to detail in their craftsmanship. Jaguar Classic collaborated with Deakin & Francis, England’s oldest manufacturing jeweler, for various bespoke elements. Founded in 1786, Deakin & Francis brought centuries of expertise to the project, creating stunning gold, mother-of-pearl, and sterling silver components that elevate these cars to another level of luxury.
Each vehicle features badges crafted from mother-of-pearl and 18-carat gold, adding a touch of elegance to the front hood emblem. The steering wheel and gear shifter feature similar badges, while a sterling silver emblem graces the trunk lid. These details, while small, make a significant impact, highlighting the level of care and precision that went into every aspect of these continuation cars. This partnership with Deakin & Francis ensures that every detail is crafted to perfection, making these E-Types not just beautiful but truly one-of-a-kind.
Inside, the Jaguar Classic E-Type Commemorative editions continue to impress. The cabins are upholstered in Bridge of Weir’s finest leather, known for its softness and durability. The seats are finished in rich brown leather with hand-woven inserts, adding a unique tactile element to the luxurious interior. Black and tan leather accents complement the seats, creating a harmonious blend that mirrors the exterior color options of Signet Green and Opal Black.
Despite the classic styling, the interiors have been thoughtfully updated with modern conveniences. The center consoles, made from anodized aluminum, feature engraved illustrations of the early Series I E-Type’s design, a subtle nod to the car’s storied history. Beneath the period-correct veneer lies modern technology, including a Bluetooth stereo system that allows for seamless audio streaming and a heated windshield, making the car more suitable for contemporary driving conditions.
Under the hood, the E-Type Commemorative editions remain faithful to their heritage while embracing modern engineering. Both cars are powered by a 3.8-liter straight-six engine, a classic powertrain synonymous with the original E-Type’s performance pedigree. However, Jaguar Classic has introduced electronic fuel injection, replacing the original triple carburetor setup to enhance reliability and efficiency. This blend of old and new ensures that the car retains its original character while benefiting from advancements in technology.
The powertrain is paired with a modern five-speed manual transmission, providing smoother gear shifts and a more engaging driving experience compared to the original four-speed gearbox. These upgrades make the E-Type Commemoratives more than just museum pieces—they are fully capable machines, ready to deliver the thrilling driving dynamics that made the E-Type a legend on the road.
Visually, the E-Type Commemorative editions are a testament to Jaguar’s design heritage. The two cars feature classic drophead coupe styling, with the convertible tops providing an open-air driving experience. One car is finished in Signet Green, a color that echoes the rich hues of British racing history, while the other boasts a striking Opal Black finish. Both paint options were standard in 1974, providing a direct link to the era when the last original E-Types were produced.
These stunning paint jobs are paired with period-correct Curly Hub-style wheels featuring a chrome finish, perfectly matching the polished exterior bumpers and trim. The overall design remains true to the original E-Type’s aesthetic while incorporating a level of refinement that sets these modern builds apart. It’s a harmonious blend of vintage appeal and modern craftsmanship, designed to capture the heart of any classic car enthusiast.
While Jaguar has not disclosed the exact price of these two Commemorative editions, it’s safe to assume that they come with a hefty price tag. Given the extensive craftsmanship involved, as well as the rarity and bespoke nature of these cars, they represent a significant investment for their owner. To put things in perspective, Jaguar’s previous E-Type Reborn program in 2017 offered restored versions of the classic model starting at around £295,000, or roughly $380,000. Considering the enhancements and bespoke details in the Commemorative editions, the price for these unique vehicles likely surpasses that figure by a substantial margin.
For those inspired by the beauty and craftsmanship of the Jaguar Classic E-Type Commemorative editions, there is still an opportunity to own a piece of this iconic legacy. While these two particular models are already spoken for, Jaguar Classic offers a continuation program that allows enthusiasts to commission their own E-Type replicas. Each build is tailored to the client’s specifications, ensuring that no two vehicles are alike. From selecting paint colors to customizing interior finishes, the continuation program allows for a truly personalized experience.
In a time when Jaguar is phasing out its production of gas-powered vehicles in favor of electrification, the E-Type Commemorative editions serve as a nostalgic reminder of the brand’s illustrious past. They encapsulate the passion, craftsmanship, and performance that have defined Jaguar for decades, offering a glimpse into a time when the roar of a straight-six engine was the pinnacle of automotive excitement.
The Jaguar Classic E-Type Commemorative editions are more than just cars; they are a tribute to one of the most celebrated sports cars in history. They embody the spirit of the original E-Type while embracing the precision and comfort of modern engineering. From their handcrafted details to their powerful engines, these cars are a celebration of Jaguar’s heritage, a statement of the enduring appeal of classic design, and a testament to the dedication of Jaguar Classic to keeping this legend alive.
While the world of cars moves toward new technologies and innovations, the allure of the Jaguar E-Type endures, proving that some classics never go out of style.
