Despite the unclear history of the Jaguar E-Type Low Drag Coupe, various sources present conflicting narratives about the car’s evolution. Nevertheless, there is unanimous consent concerning its aesthetics. A more streamlined, aesthetically pleasing iteration of the Enzo Ferrari acclaimed “the most beautiful car ever made,” the Low Drag Coupe unquestionably embodies this claim. Marco Diez was so captivated by the vehicle that he resolved to create a replica himself.
Larry Chen
Given that only two Low Drag Coupes were ever assembled, by different entities, replicating Diez’s ardor’s object—the vehicle recognized as “49FXN” due to its license plate—proved to be a daunting task. It required eight years for Diez to align his personal E-Type, registered as OWL226, with the original 49FXN car’s specifications, and today, his car is virtually identical to the original. However, there were some deviations from the original during the construction process.
Larry Chen
A prominent discrepancy between Diez’s 49FXN inspiration and his own OWL226 lies in the fact that the authentic model was a stripped-down, race-oriented architectural concept, whereas Diez’s implementation is solely intended for street use. The interior was meticulously designed to exceed the original E-Type’s standards, featuring exclusive gauges, a custom-crafted steering wheel, and a unique air conditioning system. Numerous components were held together with screws fabricated specifically for this endeavor. Additionally, to enhance safety measures, a bespoke roll bar was seamlessly integrated into the headrests of the seats to safeguard occupants should the vehicle ever overturn.
Larry Chen
Even though no one wishes for such an eventuality, Diez’s Low Drag Coupe boasts ample speed to find itself in such a predicament if maneuvered by a reckless driver (which is hopefully never the case). Equipped with a 3.8-liter inline-six engine mirroring 49FXN’s distinctive configuration featuring a ram-air intake supplying side-draft Weber carburetors, the vehicle incorporates top-tier components sourced from British performance specialist Crosthwaite and Gardiner, generating 380 horsepower. This power output renders the vehicle more than a handful to manage considering its vintage from the early 1960s.
Larry Chen
Diez took pride in introducing OWL226 at the most exclusive event during Monterey Car Week: The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering.
“Revealing this vehicle at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering was the culmination of almost a decade of dedication,” stated Diez at the exhibition. “This Jaguar E-Type Low Drag Coupe has been a labor of love. I consider ’49FXN’ as one of the most exquisite automobiles ever crafted, thus drawing inspiration from it and making it my own has fulfilled a dream.”
Larry Chen
