The Jaguar E-Type Fixed Head Coupé from Series 1, while indeed beautiful, may not boast the most optimal body proportions or stance. But that’s not a flaw on Jaguar’s part. The technology available in Coventry in 1961 limited the shaping of metal and glass in certain ways. Despite this, aerodynamicist Malcolm Sayer’s futuristic and sensual exterior design was matched with upgraded mechanicals from the past—a 3.8-liter straight-six engine, independent suspension, and disc brakes all around. How might this iconic vehicle appear if reimagined today by a renowned automotive designer?
Back in the ’60s, the E-Type debuted with a price tag of approximately £2,250, which equates to around $50,000 in today’s currency. This exceptional value played a role in the staggering production numbers from March 1961 to December 1968, resulting in a total of 33,205 Series 1 coupés and cabriolets from Jaguar.
Now in hindsight, any alterations to the E-Type seem insignificant. Dubbed the most beautiful car ever by Enzo Ferrari, this British design icon and sports car managed to capture the hearts of many, transforming numerous children into car enthusiasts, including a certain nine-year-old named Frank Stephenson back in 1969.
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Possessing nearly six decades of experience in design and fabrication methods, even the timeless exterior of the E-Type could be enhanced in pursuit of perfection. Recently, Chip Foose attempted a transformation for Hagerty. However, his style, involving lowered stances and additional chrome accents, may not resonate well with European automotive aesthetics.
Born in Morocco to an American father and a Spanish mother, former McLaren design chief Frank Stephenson has a deep connection to the Fixed Head E-Type. This coupé, ever-present as a scale model on his shelf alongside a large XK 150 roadster poster, embodies his admiration. It’s worth noting that any modifications Stephenson envisioned for the E-Type would have significantly raised production costs back then, besides extending the manufacturing duration. Jaguar, witnessing a vast demand for its affordable sports car, couldn’t accommodate these changes.
Six decades later, the critical question remains: would there be any demand for such a customization project? How do you perceive these potential upgrades?
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