UK vs UK — 1961 vs 1961
| E-Type Series I 4.2 Roadster | Mk2 3.8 Litre | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 265 hp | 220 hp |
| Torque | 283 lb-ft | 240 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,235 cc | 3,781 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.0 sec | 8.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 150 mph | 125 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.0 sec | 16.3 sec |
| Weight | — | 3,261 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,438 mm | 2,731 mm |
| Length | 4,445 mm | 4,581 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 30,141 |
| Original MSRP | — | $4,564 |
| Value (Excellent) | $400,000 | $150,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 5/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1961 Jaguar E-Type Series I 4.2 Roadster brings more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed to the table, and the 1961 Jaguar Mk2 3.8 Litre answers with stronger collectibility, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Jaguar has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1961 Jaguar E-Type Series I 4.2 Roadster with the 1961 Jaguar Mk2 3.8 Litre highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1961 Jaguar E-Type Series I 4.2 Roadster holds a clear advantage in raw power with 265 hp compared to 220 hp, a 45-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Jaguar E-Type uses a Inline-6 DOHC 24V displacing 4,235 cc, while the Jaguar Mk2 relies on a Inline-6 DOHC with 3,781 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1961 Jaguar E-Type Series I 4.2 Roadster edges ahead at 7.0 seconds versus 8.5 seconds. On the collector market, the 1961 Jaguar E-Type Series I 4.2 Roadster commands a significant premium over the 1961 Jaguar Mk2 3.8 Litre, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1961 Jaguar Mk2 3.8 Litre rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.