| Year
(of specifications) |
1961 - 1975 |
| Engine |
3.8,
4.2 litre straight 6
5.3 litre V12 |
| Transmission |
4
speed manual / 3 spd auto, RWD |
| Max
speed |
150
mph |
| 0-60
mph |
- |
| Horsepower |
- |
| weight |
- |
The
Jaguar E-Type (the car was named the XK-E in North America)
is probably one of the best known sports cars of all time. At
its introduction in 1961 the E-Type offered superb performance
at a price far less than any of its rivals.
The curvaceous yet simple bodywork of the Jaguar E-Type was
inspired by the Le Mans winning Jaguar D-Type race car. The
body proved to be incredibly stiff and worked extremely well
with the wishbone and coil spring suspension system.
Initially the E-Type was powered by a 3.8 litre inline 6 cylinder
connected to a 4 speed manual gearbox.
In 1964 the displacement was increased to 4.2 litres and the
transmission and brakes were both upgraded. The interior was
also improved thanks to better trim and electrics.
In 1966 Jaguar launched a 2+2 version of the E-Type and an automatic
transmission was made available to appeal to the American market.
1968 saw cosmetic changes to the E-Type which were essential
to comply with new US safety standards. These modifications
resulted in a more cluttered appearance and lower power due
to stricter emissions regulations.
The final version of the E-Type, the Series 3, was powered by
a 5.3 litre V12. This model could be identified from the earlier
versions due to the 2+2 layout (the 2 seat coupe model was discontinued),
flared wheel arches and a larger grille.
When the Jaguar E-Type was retired in 1975 it was replaced by
the Jaguar XJS.
Similar and related vehicles:
Jaguar XJ13
Jaguar SS100
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