Lightweight lives again
Jaguar is to build six reproductions of the original, race-bred ‘Lightweight’ E-type that was created in 1963. The new cars are the ‘missing’ six vehicles from Jaguar’s ‘Lightweight’ E-type project, which originally started in February 1963 with the objective of building eighteen ‘Special GT E-type Cars’.
Only twelve of the aluminium bodied ‘Lightweight’ E-types were eventually built, the last in 1964; the remaining six designated chassis numbers having lain dormant, until now. The new cars will be hand-built in-house by Jaguar’s finest craftsmen. Each car will be constructed to the exact specifications of their original 1960s forebears – including the 3.8-litre straight-six engine.
The 'Lightweight' carried 114kg (250lb) less weight than a standard E-type, thanks to its all-aluminium body and engine block, a lack of interior trim and exterior chrome work and a host of further weight-saving features including lightweight, handoperated side windows.
Jaguar expects a high demand for the six 'Lightweight' E-types. Established Jaguar collectors, especially those with historic racing interests, will be prioritised amongst those potential customers who express interest.