MAHWAH, N.J., March 11, 2011 ‑ In March of 1961, the
automotive world was stood on its collective ear at the Geneva
International Auto Show. The introduction of the Jaguar E‑Type, or
XK‑E as it was known in North America, heralded a new age of speed
and style.
Jaguar, which kicked off a year of celebration of the E‑Type
at this year's Geneva International Auto Show, begins the North
American festivities at the prestigious Amelia Island Concours
d'Elegance, beginning this weekend.
Introduced to the North American media and public on March
15, 1961 at the New York International Auto Show, the Jaguar XK‑E
was an instant success, the first year's production having been
sold out within days. By the end of the Series III V‑12's
production run, 72,520 E‑Types had been produced, of which
approximately 37,694 were sold in North America.
"The Amelia", first in a year‑long series of heritage events
in North America in which Jaguar will participate, is among the top
automotive events in the world. Each year, the event draws nearly
250 rare vehicles from collections around the world to Amelia
Island for a one of a kind celebration of the
automobile.
"Jaguar's spirit of innovation and breakthrough design, so
clearly expressed in the E‑Type, is still alive today, and is a
defining essence of the new Jaguar lineup, led by the award winning
new XJ luxury sedan," said Gary Temple, President of Jaguar Land
Rover North America, LLC.
"Jaguar has selected Amelia, one of North America's most
prestigious Concours, to kick off the U.S. celebration of the
iconic E‑type's 50th Anniversary," he added. "We look forward to a
full year of celebrations of the past and our future."
Several E‑Types will appear on the lawns and greens of the
Golf Club at Amelia Island, some of which are making their only
appearance of the year.
Significant Cars
Group 44 Series III V‑12 E‑Type
The Group 44 team campaigned this Series III E‑Type in the
"B" Production class of the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA)
National events. A Divisional champion in 1974, it went on to
capture the SCCA's BP National Championship in 1975. A part of the
permanent collection of the Jaguar Heritage Museum, the V‑12 E‑Type
will return after its brief stay in the U.S. to the UK to
participate in this year's Goodwood Festival of Speed.
Cunningham E‑Type Coupe
In 1962, the eponymous team of Briggs Cunningham entered this
production‑based Series I E‑Type Fixed Head Coupe at the grueling
24 Hours of Le Mans. Though prepared by the Jaguar factory, the car
was built up from mostly production parts, unlike the subsequent
"Lightweight" E‑Type Roadsters that followed. Though out gunned by
the factory‑entered Ferraris, the venerable XK‑engined car finished
4th overall, averaging 108.82 mph covering nearly 2,611 in the
process. The car is a permanent part of the privately held Collier
Collection of Naples, FL.
Also on display at "The Amelia" will be a selection of cars
from Jaguar's 2011 model line‑up. Those lucky enough to be in
attendance at this year's Concours will not only be able to feast
their eyes on some of the most exquisite Jaguars of all time, but
will be able to view and test drive current offerings.
# # #
About Jaguar
From its beginning as a manufacturer of motorcycle sidecars
in 1922, Jaguar Cars has grown to become one of the world's premier
manufacturers of luxury sedans and sports cars and with that, one
of the most recognized commercial brands. The company's vision is
simple: To produce beautiful fast cars that are desired the world
over. The company operates two manufacturing plants in the United
Kingdom and is fully engaged in environmental programs, community
work and brand awareness exercises such as
motorsports.
Contacts:
Stuart Schorr
Vice President, Communications & Public Affairs
Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC
201.760.8561
sschorr@jaguarlandrover.com
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