1961 Jaguar E-type Convertible Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Jaguar E-type Convertible's width of 1630 mm (64.2 inches) plays a critical role in its road presence and handling characteristics. A wider car generally offers better stability, especially in high-speed cornering and maneuvers, by lowering the center of gravity and enhancing grip. For the E-type, this width strikes an elegant balance between sporty agility and the aesthetic appeal of a muscular, broad stance. Drivers benefit from excellent road feedback, while visually the car commands attention with an assertive posture that emphasizes its performance capabilities and timeless design.

The height of the 1961 Jaguar E-type Convertible is approximately 1220 mm (48 inches), which is relatively low compared to modern vehicles. This low height contributes significantly to the vehicle's aerodynamic efficiency by reducing air resistance and improving stability at high speeds. Furthermore, the low profile helps lower the car’s center of gravity, enhancing cornering performance and overall handling. A low roofline also adds to the sporty, aggressive appearance typical of the E-type, making it an iconic roadster recognized worldwide for its elegant style and dynamic capabilities.

The curb weight of the 1961 Jaguar E-type Convertible typically ranges around 1270 kg (approximately 2800 lbs). This relatively lightweight construction for a roadster of its era is achieved through the use of lightweight materials and a minimalistic design approach focused on performance. A lighter curb weight improves acceleration, braking efficiency, and fuel economy, as well as handling agility. The balanced weight distribution, with the engine placement and chassis design, helps deliver a responsive driving experience with confident control around corners, making the E-type Convertible as fun to drive as it is beautiful to behold.

Yes, the 1961 Jaguar E-type Convertible fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. Standard single-car garages are typically at least 2440 mm (8 feet) wide and 4880 mm (16 feet) long, which easily accommodate the E-type's dimensions of 4390 mm (172.8 inches or roughly 14.3 feet) in length and 1630 mm (64.2 inches or roughly 5.3 feet) in width. Additionally, the car's low height (1220 mm or 48 inches) poses no clearance issues, even if the garage has overhead storage or installations. Therefore, owners of the E-type Convertible do not need to worry about specialized storage requirements for this iconic roadster.

The 1961 Jaguar E-type Convertible represented a significant evolution in size compared to earlier Jaguar sports cars such as the XK140 and XK150. While the XK models were smaller, the E-type was longer and wider, with a length of 4390 mm (172.8 inches), making it more spacious, especially in the cockpit area. This growth in size did not sacrifice agility but rather enhanced comfort and performance, allowing for more powerful engines and improved aerodynamics. The E-type's larger dimensions combined with sleek design set new standards in sports car design and performance for Jaguar, signaling a break with previous generation constraints.

Compared to other roadsters of the 1960s, such as the Chevrolet Corvette C1 and the Mercedes-Benz 190 SL, the 1961 Jaguar E-type Convertible is relatively similar in length but generally narrower and lower in height. For example, the Corvette C1 is roughly 4740 mm (186.6 inches) long and 1820 mm (71.6 inches) wide, making it longer and wider than the E-type but also heavier. The Mercedes 190 SL is closer in size at about 4265 mm (168 inches) long and 1640 mm (64.6 inches) wide, resembling the E-type in footprint but differing in design philosophy and vehicle weight. The E-type’s lightweight and aerodynamic styling gave it competitive performance advantages and a unique visual identity among its peers.

The 1961 Jaguar E-type Convertible is equipped with a fuel tank capacity of approximately 77 liters (about 20.3 US gallons). Given the car's classic inline-six engine and typical fuel consumption ranging from approximately 12 to 15 liters per 100 kilometers (about 19.6 to 15.7 miles per gallon), this allows for a practical driving range of roughly 500 to 640 kilometers (310 to 400 miles) on a full tank depending on driving conditions. This range is quite respectable for a high-performance sports car of its era, allowing for comfortable cruising on long trips without frequent refueling.

The 1961 Jaguar E-type Convertible marked a dramatic leap forward in both design and engineering compared to Jaguar's earlier sports cars like the XK series. Notable for its aerodynamic, sleek styling featuring a long bonnet and smooth, flowing lines, the E-type presented a modern approach that was revolutionary for its time. Engineering-wise, it introduced a monocoque construction for the body, independent rear suspension, and disc brakes, setting new benchmarks in performance and handling. The car's combination of British craftsmanship and innovative technology contributed to its status as an icon of automotive history and made it highly desirable among enthusiasts.

The 1961 Jaguar E-type Convertible is designed as a two-seater sports car, emphasizing a driver-focused cockpit rather than passenger capacity. Interior dimensions cater primarily to accommodating the driver and one passenger comfortably, with a low-slung seating position and a compact cabin that enhances the sporty feel. Headroom and legroom are adequate for the period’s average driver size, but the low roofline limits taller occupants slightly. The convertible top offers an open-air experience, adding to its appeal. While not spacious by modern standards, the interior space is optimized for comfort, control, and engagement with the driving experience.