The 1961 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 3.8-Litre Roadster is frequently cited as the most beautiful car ever designed. This specific example represents the earliest and most desirable production phase, often referred to as the holy grail by global collectors. It successfully pairs Malcolm Sayer’s aerodynamic bodywork with the potent engineering that defined Jaguar’s racing success during the sixties.
Early Series One Features and Outside Latches
Collectors prioritize this 1961 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 3.8-Litre Roadster for its specific early production attributes. It features the rare outside bonnet latches that require a special T-handle key to access the engine bay. The car also boasts flat cockpit floors and welded bonnet louvers, which were only found on the very first cars to leave the Coventry factory.
The exterior was recently refreshed in early 2026 with a show-quality repaint in deep maroon. This color choice emphasizes the lithe lines and covered headlights that made the XK-E an instant sensation upon its debut. Chrome wire wheels and a black soft-top complete the classic look, ensuring the car remains a standout piece at any world-class concours event.
Numbers Matching Authenticity and Documentation
Authenticity remains the cornerstone of this 1961 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 3.8-Litre Roadster’s value on the open market. It retains its original numbers-matching 3.8-litre engine, cylinder head, and body, as verified by a JDHT Production Record Trace Certificate. This documentation confirms the car was dispatched to New York in July 1961, shortly after its June build date.
The interior is finished in beige leather, providing a warm contrast to the rich maroon exterior paint. Every detail in the cabin, from the aluminum trim to the classic Smiths gauges, reflects the high standard of the earlier restoration work. Only 241 miles have been recorded since the car was restored, suggesting it has been kept primarily as a prized display piece.
Mechanical Recommissioning and Modern Service
Significant investment was made into the car’s mechanical health in 2023 to prepare it for a return to the road. Specialists in Nevada overhauled the electrical and cooling systems while addressing common lubrication and exhaust leaks. They also performed a complete brake system service to ensure the car stops as confidently as it accelerates under its own power.
Fresh seals and gaskets were installed throughout the drivetrain to preserve the integrity of the numbers-matching components. This 1961 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 3.8-Litre Roadster now benefits from both historical purity and modern reliability. These updates mean the next owner can actually experience the legendary performance that Enzo Ferrari famously praised decades ago.
Jaguar Straight Six Power and Performance Specs
The heart of the 1961 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 3.8-Litre Roadster is the 3.8-litre inline-six engine with triple SU carburetors. It was factory rated at 265 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, which was staggering for its era. This power is managed by a four-speed manual transmission, offering a visceral connection between the driver and the high-revving British motor.
With a top speed of 150 mph, the E-Type was one of the fastest production cars available in 1961. The independent rear suspension and four-wheel disc brakes provided handling that was light years ahead of its contemporary rivals. This combination of advanced technology and raw speed allowed the Roadster to dominate both the streets and the headlines during its heyday.
Summary
This 1961 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 3.8-Litre Roadster is a rare opportunity to acquire a flat-floor, outside-latch example in peak condition. Its recent 2026 refresh and documented history make it a premier candidate for any serious automotive collection. It represents a brief moment in time when design and engineering reached a perfect, unrepeatable peak in automotive history.
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Source: rmsothebys.com
