UK vs Italy — 1961 vs 1966
| E-Type Series I 4.2 Coupe | 400 GT 2+2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 265 hp | 320 hp |
| Torque | 283 lb-ft | 268 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,235 cc | 3,929 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.0 sec | 6.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 150 mph | 168 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.0 sec | 14.5 sec |
| Weight | 2,701 lbs | 2,822 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,438 mm | 2,550 mm |
| Length | 4,445 mm | 4,580 mm |
| Units Produced | 72,507 | 247 |
| Original MSRP | $5,595 | $14,750 |
| Value (Excellent) | $350,000 | $1,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 8/10 |
The 1966 Lamborghini 400 GT 2+2 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.
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 Lamborghini 400 GT 2+2 embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1966 Lamborghini 400 GT 2+2 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 320 hp compared to 265 hp, a 55-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 Lamborghini 400 GT relies on a V12 DOHC with 3,929 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1966 Lamborghini 400 GT 2+2 edges ahead at 6.5 seconds versus 7.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 247 units built, the 1966 Lamborghini 400 GT 2+2 is considerably scarcer than the Jaguar E-Type's 72,507 examples. On the collector market, the 1966 Lamborghini 400 GT 2+2 commands a significant premium over the 1961 Jaguar E-Type Series I 4.2 Coupe, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.