The legendary 1967 Jaguar E-Type Roadster, better known as the ‘Shaguar,’ is set to cross the auction block in January 2025. This iconic car, which played a starring role in all three Austin Powers movies, is a prized piece of Hollywood history. Fans of classic British sports cars and pop culture alike will have the opportunity to own a vehicle that has graced both the silver screen and a famous music video.
History and Film Appearances
The ‘Shaguar’ was prominently featured in the Austin Powers trilogy: International Man of Mystery (1997), The Spy Who Shagged Me (1999), and Goldmember (2002). With its distinctive Union Jack paint job and retro styling, the car perfectly complemented the spy parody’s 1960s aesthetic.
Beyond the films, the ‘Shaguar’ also made an appearance in Madonna’s 1999 music video for Beautiful Stranger, further cementing its place in pop culture history. Over the years, the car has remained a symbol of Austin Powers’ eccentricity and the spirit of swinging London.
Design and Features
The ‘Shaguar’ is a first-generation Jaguar E-Type, a model renowned for its sleek curves and high performance. It features:
- Custom Union Jack Paint: The vibrant British flag livery makes this car instantly recognizable.
- Classic Knock-Off Wire Wheels: Authentic to the era, enhancing the vintage charm.
- 4.2-Liter Inline-Six Engine: The original powerplant remains intact, with 63,962 miles on the odometer.
- Four-Speed Manual Transmission: Ensuring an engaging driving experience.
- Blue Leather Interior: The mostly original cabin features a wooden-rimmed steering wheel and gear knob.
Restored by Jaguar in the mid-2000s, the ‘Shaguar’ has been preserved in excellent condition, retaining most of its original components.
Ownership and Auction Story
The current owner, Josh Hancock, acquired the car after it was won in a contest. He has shared fascinating insights into its history, including a surprising fact: the production team of Austin Powers had only one car for filming, making its preservation even more remarkable.
In most film productions, multiple replicas are used to prevent damage to a single vehicle. However, due to budget constraints, the ‘Shaguar’ was the sole unit used in the trilogy, making it even more valuable to collectors.
Estimated Value and Auction Potential
A stock 1967 Jaguar E-Type Roadster with the same 4.2L engine can fetch up to $390,000, according to Classic.com. The average sale price of a well-maintained model falls between $115,000 and $190,000. However, the ‘Shaguar’s’ rich film history and cultural significance could push its value much higher.
Given the precedent of other famous movie cars—such as the original Batmobile selling for $4.2 million—bidding for the ‘Shaguar’ is expected to be competitive. Some estimates suggest it could surpass the $1 million mark, making it a prized collector’s item.
Auction Details
The ‘Shaguar’ is set to go under the hammer at Mecum Auctions in the United States on January 18, 2025. The listing includes two letters of authenticity verifying the car’s history and significance.
Unlike many high-profile classic cars, no reserve price has been announced, meaning that the highest bid will take it home. This ensures an exciting auction, where the final price could soar beyond expectations.
