The ultimate italian coachbuilder site
The ultimate italian coachbuilder site
The Jaguar Pirana Bertone was presented at the 1967 London Motor Show. The unmistakable proportions of the E Type led to what was considered a futuristic design at the time, with long hood, a short tail and muscled bodyside.
The Jaguar Pirana Bertone was the result of an initiative of the English “Telegraph“, in particular the idea of its brilliant publisher, John Anstey. Anstey believed that the car should be an ideal means of transport for a particular type of client: moneyed, keen on a sporty kind of car but at the same time a lover of comfort. It was therefore fundamental to give the car all the necessary technical features to guarantee its passengers comfort, safety, and a relaxing, pleasurable driving experience. From this perspective the Jaguar Pirana by Bertone tends towards elegance and sobriety, without pursuing shock value, and the end result is refined and harmonious, balanced in every detail. As for the general proportions, the biggest design problem was caused by the size of the mechanical components, and in particular the height of the Jaguar 4.2 litre engine block. The interior space reflects a careful study of passenger needs, which lay behind all the technical and design decisions. In this case there were no new technical problems, as the E-Type 2+2 chassis had been accepted as it was, which meant that the designer was free to concentrate his efforts on comfort and a rational use of space with the aim of enhancing driving pleasure. The Jaguar Pirana, unveiled at the 1967 London Motor Show, represents a brilliant example of a car built around the needs of the commissioning client. Interestingly, Piero Drogo endeavored to replicate the design of the Pirana by applying a new body to another E-Type, albeit one not widely regarded for its beauty.
Italian coachbuilders, renowned for their craftsmanship and design prowess, have left an indelible mark on the automotive world. The marriage of British engineering excellence with Italian design flair has resulted in some of the most striking and unique Jaguars to date. From the golden age of the XK series to the iconic E-Type and beyond, these coachbuilt creations showcase the collaborative brilliance of two automotive cultures.
