It’s been nearly 60 years since the iconic Jaguar E-Type first arrived. The model was revealed in Geneva, Switzerland in March 1961. Jaguar will pay homage to the models by creating six matched pairs of E-Types, the E-Type 60 Collection.
Each pair of the collection pays tribute to the two oldest E-Types, both known by their registration plate. The “9600 HP” and “77 RW” both played pivotal roles in the unveiling of the car.
A roadster and coupe model were shown to select guests at the ’61 debut.Photo courtesy of JDHT
Coated in an Opalescent Gunmetal Grey paint job, the 3.8-liter fixed-head coupe registered “9600 HP” was the first of two E-Types unveiled to specially-invited guests at the Parc des Eaux Vives in 1961. It was driven “flat out” to Switzerland from Coventry the night before the launch with public relations manager Bob Berry arriving at the venue mere minutes before demonstration drives were set to begin.
Reactions were overwhelmingly positive and Berry couldn’t keep up with demand for the model drives. Jaguar Test and Development Engineer Norman Dewis was told to “drop everything” and drive a British Racing Green 3.8-liter roadster registered “77 GW” overnight from Coventry to Geneva.
He made it in time and the rest, as they say, is history.
Registration plate “77 RW” is reserved for the roadster.Photo courtesy of JDHT
“The Jaguar E-type is a genuine icon, as sensational today as the moment it was unveiled in 1961,” said Dan Pink, Director of Jaguar Classic. “It’s testament to the E-type’s advanced design and engineering that it can still be enjoyed and admired as passionately almost 60 years on.
“The E-type 60 Collection is a lasting tribute for E-type admirers, honouring the car’s legacy and the achievements of the team that created it – many of whom have descendants working for Jaguar Classic today, expertly restoring, maintaining and future-proofing enjoyment for generations to come.”
Each E-Type 60 Collection model is an original 1960s 3.8-liter E-Type that has been fully restored to exclusive 60th anniversary tribute specification.
Both models were hotly sought after for test drives by potential buyers.Photo courtesy of JDHT
The set will include one Flat Out Gray “9600 HP” coupe and one Drop Everything Green “77 RW” roadster. The unique paint formulation is exclusively reserved for these cars. Jaguar Design Director Julian Thomson has given each model commemorative design details to celebrate the anniversary.
