While the 'Semi-Lightweight' E-Type is one of only two built, the Cunningham team car is considered to be one of the finest of all surviving Lister-Jaguars.
Taken separately, Sir Robert Ropner's semi-Lightweight E-Type was capable of 165 mph from a special iron-block, wet-sump engine. Drive to the 'Lightweight' alloy Dunlop wheels was via a five-speed ZF 'box and Tork-Lok limited-slip differential.
On the other hand, the first production 'Knobbly', chassis 'BHL 101', has a record of Sports Car Club of America Championship-winning success. The car is credited with having been driven by Walt Hansgen to dominate the two US Championship seasons of 1958-59 when Walt Hansgen and his Cunningham Lister-Jaguar team-mate Ed Crawford proved almost unbeatable on renowned US race circuits as Watkins Glen, Bridgehampton and Marlboro.
"This Semi-Lightweight has never been offered for sale at auction before. From the initial interest received we know it has struck a chord with top-end collectors who covet this unique and bespoke factory supplied E-Type. It is a close as you can get to the Competition Lightweights and is perhaps the ultimate road going Jaguar. For those who covet a Lister, this example is the ideal combination and ticks every box on the wish list: a car run in period by a well known and respected team, Jaguar power, and Knobbly body,” explains James Knight, International Managing Director of Motorcars at Bonhams.
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