Rowan Atkinson Offers Iconic Jaguar E-Type for Sale – A Piece of Cinematic History Awaits!
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Actor Rowan Atkinson is selling his 1963 Jaguar E-Type Series I 3.8-litre Coupé, a vehicle that gained notoriety from its appearance in the Netflix series Man vs Bee. In the show, the car encountered a series of chaotic events leading to its on-screen destruction.
Following this, the classic car underwent a meticulous restoration and is now poised for auction.
Rowan Atkinson’s passion for classic cars
Rowan Atkinson, renowned for his role as Mr. Bean, is also a dedicated car enthusiast. His collection features a variety of high-performance vehicles, including a Rolls-Royce Phantom, a Bentley Mulsanne Birkin Edition, and an Aston Martin V8 Zagato.
Notably, he previously owned a McLaren F1, which he sold for an impressive £8 million after encountering two crashes. This highlights the complex dynamics of high-end car ownership, showcasing both the risks and potential rewards.
The Jaguar E-Type’s cinematic journey
The Jaguar E-Type currently offered for sale by Atkinson played a significant role in the popular series Man vs Bee, which has attracted over 25 million hours of global viewership. In this comedic production, Atkinson’s character comically tries to outsmart a bee, resulting in chaotic scenes within an upscale residence. The car, which experienced various forms of comedic damage, including a shattered rear window and a flaming dashboard, has become a memorable element of the show.
Details of the Jaguar E-Type for sale
The Jaguar E-Type available for auction is a replica from 1963, not the original ‘9600 HP’ model from 1961. This vehicle has undergone significant restoration, featuring a new rear window and dashboard while retaining subtle elements of its original series design. It has been converted to right-hand drive and has received extensive cosmetic and mechanical upgrades, including new chrome fittings and a refreshed interior with new seats and carpets.
Specifications and history of the vehicle
This vehicle retains its original engine block but features a replacement cylinder head. Finished in classic Opalescent Gunmetal Grey, this E-Type is often regarded as one of Britain’s most beautiful sports cars. Initially produced in a left-hand-drive format for the American market, it returned to the UK in 1989 and has since become highly sought after by collectors.
In terms of performance, this model can achieve speeds exceeding 150 mph, with an impressive acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in just seven seconds. This capability helped it earn recognition as one of the fastest production cars of its era. Notably, the legendary car designer Enzo Ferrari once described it as “the most beautiful car ever made,” which solidified its iconic status in automotive history.
Auction details and collector’s appeal
Iconic Auctioneers will conduct an auction on November 9 at the NEC in Birmingham, featuring a unique piece of automotive cinema. This event will allow the highest bidder to acquire the item without reserve. Auctioneer Nick Whale highlighted the car’s significance, describing it as a rare blend of British motoring heritage and modern film culture. The chance to own a vehicle previously owned by Rowan Atkinson, which has garnered global interest, adds a distinctive layer of provenance to this auction.
For serious collectors, this Jaguar E-Type represents more than just a classic car; it signifies a connection to a beloved film character and the essence of cinematic storytelling. This auction offers individuals the opportunity to own a piece of history that seamlessly combines authenticity, character, and the allure of one of the most admired models ever produced.
