Platinum Jubilee Jaguar E-Type
Jaguar Classic used the Jubilee Pageant on 5 June to showcase a bespoke E-type that features a comprehensive list of enhancements plus metallic blue paintwork inspired by the Union Jack. The one-off E-type was commissioned by a client who had specific requirements; he wanted an open two-seater that was manufactured in the year that he was born and he wanted it finished to a bespoke specification. The team at Jaguar Classic tracked down a Series 1 E-type that was built just two days after the customer’s date of birth.
Over the following 12 months, the car underwent a complete rebuild, beginning with the bodywork. Finished in a unique deep metallic blue inspired by the blue of the Union Jack, the new blue, was exclusively mixed by the paint shop following numerous consultations and sample creations to craft the perfect hue over several months.
The bespoke interior features striking leather upholstery finished in a shade of red inspired by iconic British pillar boxes, and was hand-finished using traditional methods at the in-house Jaguar Classic Works trim shop.
“Being able to bring a customer’s vision for their dream E-type to life is hugely rewarding,” said Stephen Hollis, bespoke lead engineer at Jaguar Classic. “The result is a complete one-off that showcases the full breadth of capabilities provided by the team at Jaguar Classic. With a colour scheme inspired by the Union Jack, I can’t think of a better place for it to make its first appearance than the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Pageant.”
With the body assembly and paintwork complete, the engineering team went to work refitting mechanical elements – including a host of enhancements. The original 4.2-litre straight-six was replaced by a larger 4.7, which was then married to Jaguar Classic’s specially developed five-speed gearbox.
There was also uprated suspension, wider wheels, tyres, and uprated brakes.
Modern technologies include Jaguar Classic’s Infotainment system and powerful exterior LED lighting. A series of bespoke details complete the vehicle, including a unique plate and dash plaque. “I wanted a classic E-type that could be relied upon for daily driving and be comfortable on grand tours while remaining authentic to the original,” said the owner, “and I’m blown away by the results. You sense the history and knowledge when you enter the Jaguar ClassicWorks facility and even after several visits, I still get excited to be in the building. I’m so proud of the car the passionate team there has created, and I’m privileged to be part of its story.”