Jaguar E-Type

vs

Maserati Khamsin

UK vs Italy — 1961 vs 1973

Jaguar E-Type (1961)
Maserati Khamsin (1973)
Specifications
E-Type Series I 4.2 CoupeKhamsin
Horsepower265 hp320 hp
Torque283 lb-ft332 lb-ft
Engine Size4,235 cc4,930 cc
0-60 mph7.0 sec6.8 sec
Top Speed150 mph155 mph
¼ Mile15.0 sec15.0 sec
Weight2,701 lbs3,814 lbs
Wheelbase2,438 mm2,550 mm
Length4,445 mm4,550 mm
Units Produced72,507430
Original MSRP$5,595$28,500
Value (Excellent)$350,000$250,000
Collectibility10/108/10
Rarity5/108/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1961 Jaguar E-Type Series I 4.2 Coupe brings lighter weight, stronger collectibility, better value to the table, and the 1973 Maserati Khamsin answers with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

The rivalry between UK and Italy automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1961 Jaguar E-Type Series I 4.2 Coupe versus 1973 Maserati Khamsin is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1973 Maserati Khamsin 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 Maserati Khamsin relies on a V8 DOHC with 4,930 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1973 Maserati Khamsin edges ahead at 6.8 seconds versus 7.0 seconds. The Jaguar E-Type carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1113 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 430 units built, the 1973 Maserati Khamsin is considerably scarcer than the Jaguar E-Type's 72,507 examples. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1961 Jaguar E-Type Series I 4.2 Coupe rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.