51 Years E-TYPE
Thanks to that memorable 1961 launch, Geneva and the Jaguar E-type have become synonymous with each other. Fitting, then, that the most usable version of all made its debut there in 1966.
The 2+2 was built in response to William Lyons’ desire for more room inside the E-type. Developing a more spacious version (under the codename XJ8, amusingly) took five years, and ended up being delayed while the company worked on its saloon car projects.
But when the 2+2 was revealed at Geneva in Series 114 form, the world gasped. Technically, the changes over the standard two-seat coupe were considerable: the wheelbase was lengthened by 9in, and weight was up by 63.5kg. Visually, the biggest changes were the taller windscreen and longer doors, the styling of which was overseen by Bob Blake.
The good news is that, because it looks more awkward, the 2+2 remains the cheapest entry into E-type ownership. You can buy one in S1 1/2, S2 and V12 S3 form – it’s by far the most practical for most, as you can fit in more luggage.
To drive, it’s all good: that E-type feeling is intact, with a little less agility admittedly, but a better ride in compensation. Buy, enjoy – and don’t worry about what other people think.
1968 JAGUAR E-TYPE SERIES II 2+2
ENGINE
4235cc straight-six, SOHC per bank, three 2in SU carburettors
POWER
265bhp @ 5400rpm
TORQUE
2801b ft @ 4000rpm
TRANSMISSION
Three-speed automatic or four-speed manual, rear-wheel drive
STEERING
Rack and pinion, optional power-assistance
SUSPENSION
Front: wishbones, torsion bars, telescopic dampers, anti-roll bar. Rear: fixed-length driveshafts, lower transverse links, radius arms, twin coil spring and telescopic damper units, anti-roll bar
BRAKES
Servo-assisted discs WEIGHT 1407kg
PERFORMANCE
Top speed 139mph. 0-60mph 7.1sec