An early Jaguar E-Type represents a very competitive prospect for Pre ’63 GT racing and high-profile events such as Goodwood. The marque is supported by several top-quality preparation specialists, many of whom have been involved in the development of the superb example we have on offer, with successive owners sparing no expense.
Chassis number 886956 is a 1962 Series 1 Fixed Head Coupe which began life as a US export, in LHD form. Returning to the UK in 1989 it was fully restored, converted to RHD and repainted in red before being UK registered as KSK 620 in 1991. Following further work at Classic Motor Cars (CMC) the E was bought by Chris Phillips who commissioned CMC to rebuild the car to FIA race specification for the Pre ’63 GT series. This included uprated suspension, brakes, gearbox and differential, fitment of a roll cage and an engine rebuild by Dave Whitehurst Racing, resulting in a healthy 306 bhp and 300 lb/ft. Following further preparation by RW Racing the car competed in the Pre ’63 GT series for several seasons.
The Jaguar then joined the current owner’s extensive collection of thoroughbred race cars in 2016 and was initially prepared by Valley Motorsport. Their input included rebuilding the rear subframe and fitting correct rear brake callipers and discs. At the end of the 2018 season the engine and gearbox were rebuilt, and the car was fitted with plastic windows and a new loom, fuel tank and dampers.
Preparation work was continued by Pearsons Engineering from 2020, including widening the rear wheel arches to accept the larger rear tyres allowed by the regulations, rebuilding the rear axle, crack testing, servicing the dampers and setting up the suspension.
During this time the E was shared by the owner and his son in a small number of mainly Motor Racing Legends events, including the 2018, 2019 and 2022 Silverstone Classic, 2020 RAC TT 3 hours and 2020 Castle Combe GT & Sports Car Cup. However the increasing demands of competing in other cars mean that the Jaguar is now surplus to requirements.
Offered for sale with an FIA HTP which is valid until December 2029 and a large history file incorporating US and UK registration documents, a Heritage Certificate and invoices for the extensive work carried out over the years. Also included is a spare set of wheels and tyres and the original interior and glass.
Being road legal the car is eligible for a wide range of prestigious race and road events worldwide, and represents a great opportunity to acquire a competitive and versatile Jaguar at significantly less than its development cost.