Birmingham, UK — Rowan Atkinson, renowned for his roles in Mr. Bean and Blackadder, is parting with his cherished 1963 Jaguar E-Type Series I 3.8-Litre Coupé. This iconic British sports car, finished in the striking Opalescent Gunmetal Grey, is set to be auctioned without reserve at the NEC Classic Motor Show on Saturday, November 8, 2025, by Iconic Auctioneers (iconicauctioneers.com).
Rowan Atkinson’s 1963 Jaguar E-Type
A Rare Convergence: Classic Car and Film Legacy
This particular Jaguar E-Type isn’t just a classic car; it’s a piece of cinematic history. It was prominently featured in the 2022 Netflix comedy series Man vs. Bee, where Atkinson’s character, a hapless house-sitter, inadvertently causes chaos, including damage to the car. The vehicle’s rear quarter panel bears a subtle reminder of its on-screen role—a hole intentionally left unrepaired to preserve its film legacy (classicmotorsports.com).
Specifications and Provenance
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Model: 1963 Jaguar E-Type Series I 3.8-Litre Coupé
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Engine: Original matching-numbers 3.8-litre XK inline-six engine
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Power Output: Approximately 265 bhp
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Top Speed: Over 150 mph
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Acceleration: 0–60 mph in approximately 7 seconds
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Transmission: Manual, right-hand drive
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Mileage: 12 miles (post-restoration)
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Registration Number: NWT 932A
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Ownership: Directly from Rowan Atkinson CBE (iconicauctioneers.com)
Restoration and Condition
Following its on-screen appearance, the E-Type underwent meticulous restoration to return it to its former glory. The rear window and dashboard were replaced, and additional spares from the show are included. Notably, Atkinson chose to leave a hole in the rear quarter panel sealed with rubber, maintaining a connection to its cinematic past (classicmotorsports.com).
Auction Details
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Auction House: Iconic Auctioneers
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Event: NEC Classic Motor Show 2025
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Date: Saturday, November 8, 2025
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Location: NEC, Birmingham, B40 1NT, United Kingdom
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Estimate: £400,000 to £600,000 (price upon request) (iconicauctioneers.com)
Why This E-Type Is a Collector’s Dream
This Jaguar E-Type stands out not only for its classic design and performance but also for its unique blend of celebrity ownership and film history. As Atkinson’s personal vehicle and a featured star in a globally successful Netflix series, it offers collectors a rare opportunity to own a piece of automotive and cinematic heritage.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re an automotive enthusiast, a film aficionado, or a collector seeking a unique addition to your collection, Rowan Atkinson’s 1963 Jaguar E-Type Series I 3.8-Litre Coupé represents an exceptional convergence of style, performance, and history. Don’t miss the chance to bid on this iconic vehicle at the upcoming auction.
For more information and to register for the auction, visit Iconic Auctioneers.
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