1963 Jaguar E-Type Lightweight
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The 1963 Jaguar E-Type Lightweight is a rare and highly desirable sports car that embodies the elegance and power of British engineering. As the name suggests, this model is a stripped-down, lightweight version of the iconic Jaguar E-Type, designed specifically for racing and high-performance driving.
At the heart of the Lightweight E-Type is a powerful 3.8-liter straight-six engine, capable of producing 300 horsepower and propelling the car from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just 5.1 seconds. The engine is mated to a four-speed manual gearbox, featuring synchromesh on all forward gears for smooth shifting at high speeds.
One of the most distinctive features of the Lightweight E-Type is its aluminum body, which was handcrafted by the renowned coachbuilder, Abbey Panels. The lightweight bodywork reduces the car's overall weight by approximately 250 pounds compared to the standard E-Type, improving its handling and responsiveness on the track.
The suspension system on the Lightweight E-Type has been upgraded from the standard E-Type, featuring stiffer springs, adjustable dampers, and a reinforced rear axle. These enhancements provide greater stability and control, enabling drivers to push the car to its limits without compromising safety.
In addition to its mechanical upgrades, the Jaguar E-Type Lightweight also features a number of aerodynamic enhancements designed to improve its performance on the track. These include a large rear spoiler, a low hoodline, and a streamlined nose cone, which reduces wind resistance and increases downforce.
Inside the car, the Lightweight E-Type is spartan and functional, with only the essentials needed for high-performance driving. The driver and passenger sit in lightweight bucket seats, and are surrounded by a steel roll cage for added protection in the event of an accident.
Overall, the 1963 Jaguar E-Type Lightweight is a rare and exceptional sports car, designed with an uncompromising focus on performance and track-readiness. With its powerful engine, lightweight body, and advanced suspension and aerodynamics, it remains an icon of British engineering and a coveted prize among car collectors and racing enthusiasts alike.
Milestones
- First announced in February 1963 - Only 18 units were produced, based on E-Type Series 1 - Designed for racing with lightweight aluminium body, improved suspension, and a more powerful engine - Weight reduced by over 150kg compared to the standard E-Type - First unit, registration number 4 WPD, debuted at the 1963 Tourist Trophy at Goodwood - The Lightweight E-Type's racing career was short-lived due to the emergence of the Ford GT40 - Despite relative lack of success on the track, the Lightweight E-Type gained a reputation as a highly desirable and collectable model - In 2014, Jaguar announced the creation of six "continuation" models to complete the originally intended production run of 25 units.Technical
- Lightweight aluminum bodywork - Twin-cam, 3.8-liter six-cylinder engine - Dry-sump lubrication system - Weber 45 DC03 carburetors - Four-speed manual transmission - Independent suspension with coil springs and torsion bars - Four-wheel disc brakes - Rack and pinion steering - Top speed of 150 mph - Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds - Designed for racing with minimal interior features - Limited production run of only 12 carsRelated manufacturer
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