Since then Dr Greg Beacham's company has expanded its activities to include restoration and upgrades for the Jaguars XK150, Aston Martin DB4 , various Rolls-Royce and Bentley models and, of course, the immortal E-Type.

This particular E Type, a 3.8 Series one car, chassis # 880073, is not one of Beacham's modified cars, simply, it is an accurate and fully restored E Type rebuilt to its original specification. Its circa 9 years since nut and bolt restoration was completed, certainly the big 'CAT' looks as new as when it left Hawks Bay, a testament to Beacham's craftsmanship and the quality of materials used in the two and half year nut and bolt restoration.

Evidently an enormous amount of work was undertaken, with special attention to the fabrication of new body work panels and front sub-frame, along with front and rear suspension and to eliminate the E Type's achilles heel of poor brakes and cooling, upgraded Cooper Craft brakes and a bespoke radiator were installed.

The 3.8 litre straight six was rebuilt to factory specification, whilst the car's matching four-speed manual Moss gearbox was also completely overhauled. An entire new stainless-steel exhaust system was also fabricated and fitted. Once complete, the body was treated to a traditional British Racing Green paint scheme highlighted by the inclusion of a metallic base.

Interior wise, red was the order of the day, which included the seats, door cards and carpets where both a high grade leather and carpet were used - the dash and all gauges/dials were refurbished and to compliment the BRG paintwork, a new green mohair roof and tonneau were also added, whilst finally some 15' chrome wires added the finishing touch. Interestingly, to accommodate these wider wheel/tyres, the underside edges of the wheels arches seams have been carefully flattened to avoid tyre scrub. As you will notice, a pair of more modern seats belts have been installed, evidently an improvement over the originals in terms of safety !

With the cost of this restoration approaching 6 figures nearly ten years ago and with prices of all 'E Types' reaching unprecendented levels, to buy a donor vehicle today and then complete the work to this enormously high standard, would evidently cost substantially more.

It would be a pleasure to answer any further questions you might have. This Jaguar can be inspected at my Guildford showroom - please call me on 07788 865700.