Jaguar E-Type Reborn: A Vintage Classic Revamped
The Jaguar E-Type, also known as the XKE, might be a classic, but this article belongs in the “New Cars” section of The Drive. Despite their vintage status, the ten "reborn" Jaguar E-Types are virtually brand-new vehicles.
These models are the result of Jaguar Classic, the brand’s restoration division. Each Reborn E-Type began as one of the original vehicles manufactured in the 1960s. Once identified by Jaguar Land Rover’s experts as suitable for restoration, they were meticulously rebuilt using official Jaguar Classic parts. This process utilized the company’s comprehensive archives and the extensive knowledge accumulated by the restorers over the years, resulting in a Jaguar E-Type that’s even better than when it first rolled off the assembly line.
For those looking to enhance their vehicles further, Jaguar offers “sympathetic upgrades” that incorporate features from later E-Type versions. Options include a modern synchromesh gearbox, cooling enhancements inspired by the Lightweight E-Type, and front brake calipers from Series 2 models.
The E-Type Reborn marks the third model introduced by Jaguar Land Rover’s Reborn series, following the Reborn Series I and Range Rover from Land Rover Classic. Additionally, these restored E-Types follow the successful completion of nine XKSS sports cars, which were built to finalize the production of the legendary 1950s Le Mans racer.
While more affordable than some million-pound vintage models, the Reborn E-Types still come with a hefty price tag, starting at £285,000, approximately $355,000 at current exchange rates. Given the customizations and options available, buyers should be prepared for potential final costs nearing half a million dollars by the time their vehicle is ready.
To see the craftsmanship of Jaguar Classic firsthand before making a substantial investment, enthusiasts can view the first model from the Reborn E-Type program—a Series 1 Fixed Head Coupe 4.2 in Opalescent Gunmetal Grey—at the Techno-Classica Essen show in Germany from April 5th to 9th.
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