Schaltkulisse’s 1962 Jaguar E-Type FHC: Reimagined Classic

There are certain automobiles that transcend mere transportation; they become icons, symbols of an era, and objects of enduring desire. The Jaguar E-Type is undoubtedly one such machine. Born in the early 1960s, it immediately captivated the world with its breathtaking lines and spirited performance. Now, imagine taking that quintessential classic and meticulously enhancing it for the modern age, all while preserving the soul that made it so enchanting in the first place. This is precisely what Schaltkulisse has achieved with their stunning 1962 Jaguar E-Type FHC, a vehicle that seamlessly marries vintage charm with contemporary capability.

This extraordinary creation began life as a dismantled 1962 Series I coupe, discovered after a quarter of a century slumbering in a Californian shed. What followed was no mere restoration, but a passionate undertaking driven by a surgeon with an unwavering eye for detail and a lifelong love for Jaguars. Enlisting the expertise of Master Jaguar engineer David Ferguson, the project’s aim was clear: to build not a static showpiece, but a supremely driveable and reliable machine capable of tackling modern roads, all whilst raising funds for a worthy cause.

The meticulous nature of the build is immediately evident. The body, stripped bare and painstakingly restored, now gleams in a later Opalescent Silver Grey hue, subtly enhanced by a lightweight aluminium Le Mans-style bonnet. Beneath this skin, however, lies a wealth of thoughtful upgrades designed to elevate the driving experience without sacrificing the E-Type’s inherent character. The engine, a heart that has been completely rebuilt and enhanced, now boasts performance cylinder heads, sport camshafts, electronic ignition, and a host of other refinements, all contributing to a more responsive and robust power delivery. This is mated to a rebuilt gearbox and clutch, along with a high-torque starter and a rear end optimized for modern cruising.

Step inside, and you’ll find a cabin that respects its heritage while embracing subtle modern conveniences. Dynamat sound deadening ensures a more refined auditory experience, while cleverly integrated air conditioning offers respite from warmer climates. Electronic power steering, discreetly installed, lightens the load at lower speeds, and upgraded brakes and suspension – featuring adjustable coil-over shocks – provide enhanced handling and control. Modern touches like rally trip computers, tyre pressure monitoring, and even a removable satellite navigation screen blend seamlessly into the classic dashboard layout, ensuring that modern adventures are undertaken with period style and contemporary ease.

This Schaltkulisse creation isn’t just about aesthetics and upgrades, however; it’s about the experience. Built with long-distance touring in mind, this E-Type has already proven its mettle, completing a 3500-mile cross-country journey from San Francisco to Orlando without a hitch, averaging an impressive 19.5 mpg along the way. It’s a testament to the meticulous engineering and the clear vision behind this remarkable machine – a Jaguar E-Type not just to admire, but to drive and truly enjoy, wherever the open road may lead. This is a classic reimagined, ready to embark on a new chapter, blending timeless elegance with modern-day adventure.

buy now from schaltkulisse | $250k