CAR OF THE WEEK: This Elegant Jaguar E-Type Can Be Yours For $124,900

via Hemmings

The Jaguar E-Type is the quintessential British sports car. But beyond that, it is also one of the most beautiful cars ever put into production.

This pristine example is now available for $124,900 (via Hemmings).

Introduced at the Geneva Motor Show in 1961, the E-Type made a splash immediately. The long hood and short rear deck were distinguishing design features of this iconic Jaguar.

The E-Type was even referred to as the "most beautiful car ever made" by a man familiar with beautiful machinery, Enzo Ferrari (via Garage Blog).

But to make Mr. Ferrari even angrier that he didn't come up with the E-Type, Jaguar made it cost about half as much as the Ferraris of the day while it was also faster.

The car featured here is a Series 1 Roadster, one of the most desirable models. First generation cars have tiny bumpers and elegant shrouded headlamps that were absent from subsequent versions.

The E-Type just celebrated its 50th birthday and has never looked better.

The E-Type's profile is what made it an icon. The long hood and short rear deck were reminiscent of nothing else on the road. This car has had a full restoration, so it looks even better than new.

via Hemmings

The tapered front end, long hood, and oval headlights were hallmarks of the E-Type. The Daily Telegraph even ranked it as the best looking car of all time.

via Hemmings

Source: www.telegraph.co.uk

It was also actively campaigned in some of the biggest endurance races on the planet like Le Mans and Sebring. However, unlike its predecessors, the C and D-Types, the E-Type failed to find a victory lane.

via Hemmings

A closer look at the headlights. Series 1 cars were the only ones fitted with the aerodynamic glass covers.

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This later Series 1 car featured the 4.2 liter version of Jaguar's venerable straight six engine. With about 265 horsepower, the E-Type was one of the quickest cars of its day.

via Hemmings

The interior is impeccable. Beautiful leather covers almost every surface and the classic wood shift knob and steering wheel remain.

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Unlike many older British sports cars, it appears the Smiths gauges in this one actually work.

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The wire wheels are another traditional E-Type element that has been maintained. While they look great, they are a pain to clean.

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The owner is even including the original toolkit, which may be in better condition than the car itself.

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Now take a look at Top Gear's tribute to the E-Type for its 50th birthday.

How about some American muscle?

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