Triumphantly unveiled at the 1961 Geneva Motor Show, the Jaguar E-Type created a furore thanks to its supercar performance, stunning looks and modest price tag.

Early racing success at the hands of Graham Hill and Roy Salvadori amongst others helped cement the newcomer's reputation.

Built as a monocoque with an engine cradling front sub-frame, the E-type's combination of all-around independent suspension and disc brakes allied to rack-and-pinion steering resulted in excellent roadholding and handling capabilities.

The indomitable straight-six XK twin-cam engine supplied abundant power.

If the design had an Achilles' heel, it was the recalcitrant Moss gearbox.

However, Jaguar was quick to correct this shortcoming with a four-speeder of its own design, part of a continual programme of E-Type development that saw the model metamorphose through three series.

Introduced in August, 1968, the Series II cars were distinguishable by their revised bumper and light arrangements.

Less notic...