UK vs Italy — 1961 vs 1964
| E-Type Series I 4.2 Coupe | 500 Superfast | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 265 hp | 400 hp |
| Torque | 283 lb-ft | 347 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,235 cc | 4,962 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.0 sec | 6.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 150 mph | 174 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.0 sec | 14.0 sec |
| Weight | 2,701 lbs | 3,307 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,438 mm | 2,650 mm |
| Length | 4,445 mm | 4,700 mm |
| Units Produced | 72,507 | 36 |
| Original MSRP | $5,595 | $16,800 |
| Value (Excellent) | $350,000 | $6,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 10/10 |
The 1964 Ferrari 500 Superfast 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 lighter weight, 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 1964 Ferrari 500 Superfast embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1964 Ferrari 500 Superfast holds a clear advantage in raw power with 400 hp compared to 265 hp, a 135-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 500 Superfast relies on a V12 SOHC 24V with 4,962 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1964 Ferrari 500 Superfast edges ahead at 6.0 seconds versus 7.0 seconds. The Jaguar E-Type carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 606 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 36 units built, the 1964 Ferrari 500 Superfast is considerably scarcer than the Jaguar E-Type's 72,507 examples. On the collector market, the 1964 Ferrari 500 Superfast commands a significant premium over the 1961 Jaguar E-Type Series I 4.2 Coupe, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.