8 February 2011 Last updated at 16:17

Jaguar E-Type turns 50

One of the world's most famous sports cars, the Jaguar E-type, turns 50 this year. The car caused a stir when it was launched at the Geneva motor show in 1961, and it still does so to this day.

Jaguar E-type on display in the Design Museum Tank in London

The car is considered such a design classic, it is being displayed in the Design Museum Tank in London until 6 March.

To mark the anniversary, Norman Dewis, who was the first test driver of the original E-Type, and Formula 1 racing legend John Surtees went for a spin along the Thames in London.

The car they were in is known as "the 77 RW", which was one of two press cars in 1961.

Norman Dewis, the first test drive of the original E-Type

"This is the iconic shape that made Jaguar into the sportscar maker it is to its customers," Mr Dewis says, recalling how he drove it from Coventry to Geneva ahead of the launch. "It took 11 hours," he says. "I averaged 68 mph."

Formula 1 racing legend John Surtees (R)

"Today is all built on the foundation of yesterday," agrees Mr Surtees, insisting the carmaker Jaguar "has benefited a lot".

In 1996, Jaguar launched its XK series of sportscars, which has been successful in its own right, though it has not reached the lofty heights of the E-Type. Text and photos: Jorn Madslien.

Business

Jaguar E-Type turns 50

Share this page

Services

About BBC News