One-off Jaguar Classic E-type debuts at Queen's Platinum Jubilee Pageant

MANILA: Jaguar Classic showcased a bespoke Jaguar E-type at the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Pageant last June 5. The one-off classic underwent enhancements carried out by expert technicians at Classic Works, and metallic blue paintwork inspired by the Union Jack.

In the Jubilee Pageant, the bespoke Jaguar E-type made its debut alongside 15 iconic Jaguars, including a selection of historically important Jaguar E-types, an all-electric I-Pace eTrophy race car, and seven convertible Jaguars all carrying famous Dames. The customer of the bespoke E-type was joined by American dancer, model, and fashion designer Eric Underwood in the passenger seat.

Jaguar Classic restores E-type Series 1 models to their original specification. This bespoke example showcases the full capabilities of personalization available from the restorer's state-of-the-art home in Coventry.

The one-off E-type was commissioned by a client who had specific requirements. He wanted a Roadster manufactured in the year he was born and finished to a bespoke specification. The team at Jaguar Classic set to work and tracked down a Series 1 E-type that was built just two days after the customer’s date of birth.

With the E-type's body assembly and paintwork complete, the engineering team refitted and enhanced the car's mechanical elements. The original 4.2-liter straight-six was replaced by a larger 4.7-liter engine, a unit optimized for road driving and married to Jaguar Classic’s specially developed five-speed gearbox. The powertrain is promised to provide a refined yet exciting driving experience.

Uprated suspension ensures the chassis can exploit the performance provided by its powertrain, while wider wheels, tires, and uprated brakes make the bespoke E-type deliver superior grip. A sports exhaust and manifold ensure the E-type’s soundtrack suits its dynamic character.

Modern technologies come in the form of the Classic Infotainment system that combines touchscreen controls, satellite navigation, and Bluetooth with a period look, which is apt to the car's vintage. Outside, the bespoke E-type's powerful exterior LED lighting also brings illumination up to modern standards for additional confidence driving at night.

Other bespoke details complete the vehicle, including a unique plate and dash plaque. This one-off blue E-type features a few elements inspired by the limited E-type 60 Collection. 

The new owner said: “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 — and I’m blown away by the results. You sense the history and knowledge when you enter the Jaguar Classic Works 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.”

While most of this blue E-type's pieces were bespoke, certain elements found in it are available for all E-type owners to purchase.  These include Jaguar Classic’s specially developed five-speed gearbox and Classic Infotainment system.

The five-speed gearbox, available to purchase through Jaguar Classic’s dedicated parts team, give the E-type added usability and comfort. Installation of the gearbox does not require cutting of the car's chassis and therefore does not compromise integrity to the vehicle.

Photos from Jaguar

Also read: JLR to work with firms for vehicle tech, sustainability with 'Open Innovation' strategy