One of the big developments in the classic car world has been the growth in recreations, low run and resto mods. Thanks to technology building a one off car falls within the reach of more and more enthusiasts.
I am still unsure about where I stand on these cars. Building a Resto Mod makes sense to me. All the style of times gone by but with modern reliability, safety and performance.
Building a copy of a historic car that is not readily available also makes sense and I would happily own a replica Lancia Stratos but I wouldn’t pay the asking price for a newly built Mini.
The cars that make the most sense are the historic race and rally cars built from the ground up. Building rally car using a new shell allows the builder to build in strength from the get go. With the rising values of historic cars, the newly built versions seems to represent (relatively) good value.
With that in mind today we are looking at a road-legal GT capable of crossing continents with speed, comfort and style. Eagle E-Types from Sussex are recognised as a leaders in the restoration and further development of the Jaguar E-Type.
The Eagle Lightweight GT is the road-going evolution of one of the world’s rarest race cars. The Lightweight E-Type was Jaguar’s racing follow-up to the D-Type, with eighteen to be built, just a dozen were built in period.
Every body-line of the original has been carefully re-sculpted for a more purposeful, hunkered stance and bespoke raked glass, a lowered roofline and exquisite craftsmanship throughout – from precise panel gaps to hidden weather seals and a flush-bonded rear screen. Distinctive details include painted badges beneath the lacquer, a flush-mounted aluminium fuel cap and auxiliary switches integrated into the bulkhead.
The Lightweight GTR’s all-aluminium 4.7-litre straight-six with wide-angle head, titanium con-rods, and triple Weber carburettors develops a power-to-weight ratio in excess of 430 bhp/ton. All transmission casings are magnesium and the exhaust system is constructed from Inconel and titanium.
The independent suspension geometry is revised, hardware including hubs has been remanufactured from titanium and the dampers are adjustable Öhlins fitted with bespoke-rated springs. Brake discs and pads are carbon-ceramic in conjunction with servo-assisted AP Racing calipers.
The titanium con-rods raise the rev ceiling by 500rpm, making it easier to enjoy and exploit the distinctive power band through gear changes.
Inside, the GTR is trimmed in black Alcantara and the lightweight aluminium seats echo period racing designs. Four-point harnesses and an integrated fire suppression system contribute further to the race-car minimalist aesthetic. A floating binnacle houses auxiliary switches hewn from platinum with mother of pearl inlays, along with a magnetic phone dock. Heated glass, air conditioning, and carefully-considered sound and heat insulation ensure long-distance comfort remains uncompromised.
The kerb weight of just 975kg with fluids is more than 30% lighter than a standard E-Type Roadster and this combination of power delivery and extreme lightness delivers thrilling performance and extraordinary agility.
For further information: Eagle E-Types – The Jaguar E-Type Experts