UK vs UK — 1961 vs 1968
| E-Type Series 1 Coupe 4.2 | E-Type Series II 4.2 2+2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 265 hp | 246 hp |
| Torque | 283 lb-ft | 283 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,235 cc | 4,235 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.0 sec | 7.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 150 mph | 138 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.0 sec | 15.4 sec |
| Weight | — | 3,100 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,438 mm | 2,667 mm |
| Length | 4,445 mm | 4,750 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 5,326 |
| Original MSRP | — | $6,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $350,000 | $120,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 5/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1961 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 Coupe 4.2 brings quicker acceleration, higher top speed to the table, and the 1968 Jaguar E-Type Series II 4.2 2+2 answers with stronger collectibility, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Jaguar E-Type. The 1961 and 1968 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1961 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 Coupe 4.2 producing 265 hp and the 1968 Jaguar E-Type Series II 4.2 2+2 delivering 246 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Jaguar E-Type uses a Inline-6 DOHC 12V displacing 4,235 cc, while the Jaguar E-Type Series II relies on a Inline-6 DOHC with 4,235 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1961 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 Coupe 4.2 edges ahead at 7.0 seconds versus 7.6 seconds. On the collector market, the 1961 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 Coupe 4.2 commands a significant premium over the 1968 Jaguar E-Type Series II 4.2 2+2, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1968 Jaguar E-Type Series II 4.2 2+2 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.