Jaguar Classic will debut its first ‘Reborn’ E-type at the Techno-Classica show in Essen, Germany.
Running from the 5-9 April, the Vintage, Classic and Prestige Automobiles show will see the first of 10 expertly sourced and comprehensively restored examples of the iconic Jag. E-type Reborn is a complete service from Jaguar Classic, which offers customers the unique opportunity to purchase an original and highly collectible E-type direct from the vehicle’s original manufacturer, based in a new Classic Works facility in the UK.
The launch of E-type Reborn extends the initiative previously introduced for Land Rover’s Series I and Range Rover Classic models, which will also be on show at Essen.
Each E-type Reborn starts with a base vehicle sourced by Jaguar, before being completely restored according to the company’s original 1960s factory specification. Unique access to build records and original drawings held by the Jaguar Heritage Trust, and the team’s decades of experience in restoration up to concours-winning standard, ensure ‘absolute authenticity’ says Jaguar.
Tim Hannig, Director, Jaguar Land Rover Classic, said: “The launch of E-type Reborn is a hugely exciting development for Jaguar Classic. The E-type is the most iconic sports car of all time, so we are delighted to be able to give new life to expertly selected examples for discerning customers around the world to own and enjoy. The resources and information available to Jaguar Classic’s expert technicians are unrivalled, which results in the most authentic E-type restorations possible.”
The first vehicle to go through the complete E-type Reborn process is an Opalescent Gunmetal Grey Series 1 4.2 Fixed Head Coupe. Originally exported to California in May 1965, the car recorded 78,000 miles before being stored in 1983. It retains its original matching numbers bodyshell, engine and gearbox, all of which have been completely rebuilt by Jaguar Classic technicians.
As much of the original vehicle as possible is retained or refurbished to correct specifications, while any safety-critical parts are replaced with new items from Jaguar Classic Parts. Body panels from Jaguar Classic’s reverse-engineered panel programme are fitted where necessary, to remove corrosion and restore the E-type’s iconic looks with the best fit possible.
A number of sympathetic upgrades from later E-types can be incorporated into the restoration process at extra cost, subject to the customer’s wishes, including improved cooling (using Lightweight E-type-derived parts), all-synchromesh gearbox (if not fitted to the vehicle originally), or Series 2 front brake calipers.
Prices for E-type Reborn restorations from Jaguar Classic are dependent on specification, starting from £285,000.