With this first replica project in Jaguar's history, the six "missing" Jaguar E-Types with the aluminum body will carry the remaining chassis numbers that were reserved for this model in 1963.
The technical data from that time still serves as a template today for producing the new Lightweight E-Type in exactly the same design as its twelve predecessors from 1963.
The first of the new "lightweight" E-Types will be presented to the public in late summer this year. Details will be announced at a later date.
Conceived for racing
In February 1963, Jaguar began building 18 lightweight Special GT E-Types, which were intended for later racing use. By 1964, however, only twelve of these special E-Types with aluminum bodywork had been produced and delivered. The remaining six chassis numbers remained reserved until today.
Reproduction by hand
Jaguar uses its own specialists to rebuild the six Lightweight E-Types. They produce each vehicle individually and by hand on the basis of the technical specifications from the 1960s - including the 3.8 liter six-cylinder in-line engine. Compared to the basic E-Type model, the lightweight version weighs around 114 kg less.
The weight saving was achieved thanks to the aluminum body (chassis and trim) and the aluminum engine block, a simpler interior, the omission of various exterior chrome parts and measures such as the manual side windows.
Jaguar anticipates high demand for these six new Lightweight E-Types. Established Jaguar collectors - particularly those with an interest in historic racing cars - will be given priority.
A sports car icon
A total of 72,500 Jaguar E-Types were built between 1961 and 1975.
Jaguar's racing department was responsible for the construction of the Lightweight E-Type produced in 1963. One of the twelve vehicles was not delivered until 1964. According to current knowledge, eleven vehicles have survived to this day.
The Lightweight E-Types were homologated as GT vehicles, which - with various modifications - were derived from series production. The main changes concerned the aluminum body (chassis and panels), the aluminum engine block, the cylinder head with larger valve angle, the dry sump lubrication for the 3.8 liter XK engine with fuel injection and the aluminum hardtop. All chassis numbers begin with an "S".
The Lightweight E-Type was used in the days of racing legends such as Graham Hill, Jackie Stewart, Roy Salvadori and Briggs Cunningham. Today, the vehicles regularly shine at events on the historic motorsport scene.
