Jaguar E-Type

vs

Ferrari 330 GTC

UK vs Italy — 1961 vs 1966

Jaguar E-Type (1961)
Ferrari 330 GTC (1966)
Specifications
E-Type Series I 4.2 Coupe330 GTC Pininfarina
Horsepower265 hp300 hp
Torque283 lb-ft250 lb-ft
Engine Size4,235 cc3,967 cc
0-60 mph7.0 sec6.5 sec
Top Speed150 mph152 mph
¼ Mile15.0 sec14.8 sec
Weight2,701 lbs2,822 lbs
Wheelbase2,438 mm2,400 mm
Length4,445 mm4,470 mm
Units Produced72,507598
Original MSRP$5,595$14,500
Value (Excellent)$350,000$900,000
Collectibility10/109/10
Rarity5/107/10
The Verdict

The 1966 Ferrari 330 GTC Pininfarina emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1961 Jaguar E-Type Series I 4.2 Coupe counters with stronger collectibility, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

When UK engineering meets Italy craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1961 Jaguar E-Type Series I 4.2 Coupe and 1966 Ferrari 330 GTC Pininfarina embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1966 Ferrari 330 GTC Pininfarina holds a clear advantage in raw power with 300 hp compared to 265 hp, a 35-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Jaguar E-Type uses a Inline-6 DOHC (XK) displacing 4,235 cc, while the Ferrari 330 GTC relies on a V12 SOHC with 3,967 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1966 Ferrari 330 GTC Pininfarina edges ahead at 6.5 seconds versus 7.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 598 units built, the 1966 Ferrari 330 GTC Pininfarina is considerably scarcer than the Jaguar E-Type's 72,507 examples. On the collector market, the 1966 Ferrari 330 GTC Pininfarina commands a significant premium over the 1961 Jaguar E-Type Series I 4.2 Coupe, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.