Do you remember the catchphrases, wild costumes, and outrageous humor of Austin Powers in the late ’90s? Now, the ultimate throwback is here. According to Car and Driver, the original 1967 Jaguar E-Type convertible, famously dubbed the “Shaguar,” and featured in all three Austin Powers movies, is hitting the auction block this January at Mecum Auctions.
This isn’t just a car; it’s a groovy time capsule from the Swinging Sixties and one of the most iconic on-screen vehicles in cinematic history.
Unlike most Hollywood cars, which usually involve multiple duplicates for filming, this is the one and only E-Type that made it to the screen. It’s the same vehicle piloted by Austin Powers, as hilariously portrayed by Mike Myers (and briefly by Tom Cruise spoofing Mike Myers).
Beneath its eye-catching Union Jack paint job, you’ll find a quintessential classic: a 1967 Jaguar E-Type equipped with a 4.2-liter inline-six engine, a manual gearbox, and right-hand drive—a combination as British as Austin’s infamous one-liners.
The car has a storied history. After filming wrapped, it became part of a private collection and was occasionally loaned to Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) for events, where it underwent maintenance and partial restoration in the mid-2000s. More recently, it has had comprehensive mechanical work, ensuring it’s as ready to drive as it is to be admired.
The Shaguar is a playful reminder of a bygone era, both the psychedelic ‘60s it satirized and the late ‘90s when it first hit the silver screen. The humor of Austin Powers remains timeless, from Dr. Evil’s hilarious pinky pose to Austin’s delightfully cheesy quips. And this car, like the movies, stands as a testament to the era’s ability to laugh at itself while celebrating its quirks.
As nostalgia surges for the aesthetics and pop culture of past decades, this auction offers a unique opportunity for one lucky bidder to own a piece of cinematic history. Whether you’re a die-hard Austin Powers fan or simply an admirer of classic cars, the ‘Shaguar’ is an unmistakable icon.
So, if you’ve ever found yourself saying, “Oh, behave!” or “Groovy, baby!” with a laugh, take a peek at Mecum’s listing. You might even be inspired to rewatch the trilogy and relive the hilarious antics of Austin, Dr. Evil, and the whole gang. Who knows? You might end up with a shagadelic car to match your memories.
Photo by Car And Driver