When Jaguar replaced its ageing XK150 sports car in 1961 with the now legendary E-type, there was no intention to develop it for motor sport but a new FIA race category proved ideal for the E-type and the temptation to take to the track proved irresistible. When the car was launched, it made headlines due to its stylish aerodynamic bodywork that evolved from Jaguar’s hugely successful D-type and a prototype design study titled ‘E2A’.
It also benefited from the latest modern disc brakes but what it it lacked was a competition engine as its 3.8-litre engine had been developed for road use even though the early publicity made claims of a top speed of 150mph. Despite being overwhelmed by orders, Jaguar was able to prepare an early production E-type for Graham Hill to race and his success provided the impetus to further improve the car. It frequently beat the competition on British circuits but on the long, fast European tracks, the E-type’s lack of speed became evident. In 1963 Jaguar received an order from two British race drivers, Peter Lumsden and Peter Sargent, for a lightweight competition E-type and they duly took delivery of chassis number S850663 and was road registered as 49 FXN. With help from a mechanically-minded friend the ‘Lightweight’ was further modified, with special attention paid to the aerodynamics. Along with subtle low-drag bodywork modifications, it was fitted with a distinctive light aluminium roof and painted dark green. It was first raced at Goodwood before taking part in the 1964 Le Mans test weekend where it was placed sixth overall and second in class. A good result was expected in the Le Mans 24-Hour that year but it retired during the night with gearbox failure. By the end of 1966 both Lumsden and Sergent had retired from racing and the car was sold. Later, the car spent 20 years in America before Sir Anthony Bamford repatriated it in 2000 and returned it to historic racing. It competed in a number of events including the Goodwood Revival and three years later ownership passed to Viscount Cowdray. It is seen here in the Goodwood paddock during a test day for the 2004 meeting where it was driven by Derek Bell and Ludovic Lindsay.
