Eagle Lightweight GTR vs. Original E-Type: A Tale of American Influence and Modern Craftsmanship

The Iconic Jaguar E-Type and American Roots

• 💡 The Jaguar E-Type, designed by aircraft engineer Malcolm Sayer, is renowned for its aerodynamics and was allegedly called the "most beautiful car in the world" by Enzo Ferrari.
• 🇺🇸 This film explores the lesser-known story of America's involvement in the E-Type's development, particularly through racing entrepreneur Briggs Cunningham.

Briggs Cunningham and the E2A Prototype

• 🏎️ Briggs Cunningham, a successful sportsman and racing driver, played a key role in the E-Type's early development.
• 🔧 Cunningham raced the E-Type prototype E2A at Le Mans in 1960, influencing the car's independent rear suspension setup after driver Dan Gurney found it too nervous.
• 🤝 This arrangement allowed Jaguar to gain valuable development miles without the scrutiny of a works team.

Cunningham's E-Type Race Car (Chassis 875027)

• 🏆 Chassis 875027, one of the first customer E-Types in the US, was built up into a race car by Cunningham's team.
• 🛠️ It featured semi-lightweight aluminum panels and a steel block, weighing around 1171 kg, and achieved class victories at Daytona and Sebring in 1962.
• ⚔️ This car, along with others, inspired Jaguar to build the 12 factory Lightweight E-Types in 1963 to compete against Ferrari 250 GTOs.

Eagle's Lightweight GTR: Modern Masterpiece

• ✨ Eagle, a renowned E-Type specialist, has created the Lightweight GTR, an ultimate incarnation of the lightweight E-Type.
• ⚖️ Weighing just 975 kg (2150 lb) with fluids, it utilizes extensive use of magnesium, aluminum, and titanium components, including a 4.7L all-aluminum engine with a D-Type wide-angle head.
• 💎 Bespoke details abound, such as platinum and mother-of-pearl switches for electrical cutouts and fire extinguishers, reflecting Eagle's meticulous craftsmanship.
• 🛣️ Despite its racing pedigree, the GTR offers a refined, usable road car experience with luxurious trim, comfortable seating, and improved ergonomics compared to the original.
• 🚀 The GTR features modern upgrades like carbon ceramic brakes and a titanium gear knob, enhancing its performance and drivability on track and road.