Jaguar, the iconic British brand, has been making headlines recently with its ambitious plans for an all-electric future. Amidst these changes, for fans seeking a bit of retro fun, there’s exciting news about a film-famous Jaguar – the unforgettable E-Type from the Austin Powers movies, affectionately known as the “Shaguar”.
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Yes, baby! The actual 1967 Jaguar E-Type Series I Roadster, decked out in its signature Union Jack paint scheme from the Austin Powers film series, is hitting the auction block. Mecum Auctions will be offering this iconic vehicle in January 2025 at their Kissimmee, Florida event. Movie car enthusiasts and fans of the shagadelic spy will be thrilled to know that this is not a replica; according to the auction catalog, this is the genuine Shaguar that appeared in all three Austin Powers films: International Man of Mystery, The Spy Who Shagged Me, and Goldmember.
While Mike Myers captivated audiences with his hilarious portrayal of Austin Powers and other characters, the Shaguar became a star in its own right. This car perfectly embodied the over-the-top, swinging sixties vibe of the films, becoming instantly recognizable and beloved by fans worldwide.
Since the Austin Powers movie franchise concluded in 2002, this famous Jaguar has been part of a private collection. However, it has continued to make appearances in popular culture, most notably alongside Madonna in her music video for “Beautiful Stranger,” which also featured Mike Myers. It has also been showcased at various Jaguar Land Rover corporate events, further cementing its status as a cultural icon.
Dating back to December 8, 1967, this E-Type was originally manufactured with an Opalescent Silver Blue exterior, a blue convertible top, and a dark blue interior. Under the hood, it retains its original powertrain: a 4.2-liter inline-six engine paired with a four-speed manual transmission. The fact that Austin Powers, a character synonymous with cool, drove a car with a manual transmission adds another layer of appeal for automotive purists. A distinctive touch added for the movies is the custom rear decklid emblem proudly displaying “Shaguar,” solidifying its movie identity.
According to the Mecum Auctions listing, Jaguar Land Rover performed a restoration on the Shaguar in the mid-2000s, followed by a recent “comprehensive mechanical update.” This suggests that the car is in excellent condition and ready for its next adventure.
Adding to its provenance, the sale includes letters of authentication from Josh Hancock, who was responsible for selecting the E-Type for the Austin Powers films, and Ray Claridge, owner of Cinema Vehicle Services, the company that prepared and maintained the car throughout the movie series.
The Shaguar is more than just a car; it’s a cultural artifact. It’s a perfect automotive caricature that mirrors the playful spirit of the Austin Powers films and the iconic British culture of the 1960s they parodied. For collectors of movie cars or anyone looking to own a truly unique piece of pop culture history, this 1967 Jaguar E-Type Shaguar is an unmissable opportunity. So, if you’re in the market for an outrageously groovy Car From Austin Powers, get ready to bid! Oh, behave!
