Page 1 of 1 Jaguar's E-Type is considered by many as one of the best looking cars ever designed, so any custom modifications made could be considered tinkering with perfection. Jaguar dealer John Coombs did not agree and asked Pietro Frua to modify a red Fixed Head Coupe E-Type. The result was still unmistakably recognisable as an E-Type. Coombs planned to market the Frua E-Type as special model in his line-up.
A completely revised nose was the most obvious design change carried through by Frua. Around 25 cm was chopped off and a whole new grill was fitted. The power bulge on the hood was replaced by an air-scoop which increased the car's cooling considerably. On each side of the scoop two grills were fitted on the hood as well. The rear was equipped with a new bumper and also slightly shortened by Frua.
It made its debut at the 1966 Earls Court Motor Show, repainted silver by Frua. Unfortunately for Coombs, his Frua Jaguar was not the success he hoped it to be. Chassis no 1E 21041 remains the only E-Type modified by Frua. Today it remains as one of the very few restyled E-Types on a production of well over 17,000 for the Series 1 model alone.
Christie's offered the Frua E-Type in original, but far from perfect state at the 2003 Paleis 't Loo Concours d'Elegance auction. It was estimated to sell for a price between $40,000 and $51,000, but offers made failed to meet the reserve set. The Frua E-Type is seen here at the Christie's auction and the 2004 Interclassics in Maastricht. Page 1 of 1
Ultimatecarpage.com
> Cars by brand
> Great Britain
> Jaguar
E-Type 4.2 Frua Coupe
Jaguar's E-Type is considered by many as one of the best looking cars ever designed, so any custom modifications made could be considered tinkering with perfection. Jaguar dealer John Coombs did not agree and asked Pietro Frua to modify a red Fixed Head Coupe E-Type. The result was still unmistakably recognisable as an E-Type. Coombs planned to market the Frua E-Type as special model in his line-up.