Photos provided by the vendor

Highlights

V12 powered Series III E-Type in desirable convertible specification
Only 2 former keepers from new
Presented in beautiful condition having previously benefited from an extensive restoration under its first owner
Improved by the fitment of European specification bumpers and removal of the US emission control system by current owner (original equipment supplied with sale)

The Appeal

Released in 1971 and featuring their brand new world-beating 5.3-litre V12 engine, the Series III E-Type represented the ultimate evolution of Jaguar’s iconic sports car.

A very different proposition to its earlier iterations, the Series III E-Type had grown into a luxurious and refined grand tourer. With a V12 engine capable of delivering effortless acceleration, upgraded brakes and fitment of power steering as standard, the Series III really is as much a joy to drive as it is to behold.

For the past 20 years whilst under its current ownership, this particular E-Type has lived a cherished life, residing in a heated garage and seeing only careful infrequent use in dry weather.

Delivered new to the USA in 1973, the first 30 years of this Jaguar’s life were spent with its original owner in California. Following an extensive restoration towards the end of his ownership, the car was then sold via Christie’s auction house to a Texas-based classic car collector.

Owned for only a short period by its second owner (during which time the car had little to no use), it was finally purchased by its current owner in 2003 and in the intervening 20 years the big V12 cat has barely covered 3000 miles.

Coming fresh from a recent service by a respected Jaguar V12 engine specialist and a superb paint correction process, this Series III E-Type is now in an enviable condition and is reported to be performing excellently.

A fantastic opportunity to acquire a very well-sorted V12-engined E-Type in desirable open top configuration, this low ownership example would be sure to make a very special addition to any enthusiast’s garage.

The History and Paperwork

3 former keepers. Under original ownership for approximately 30 years and current ownership since 2003.
Original Operating, Maintenance and Service Handbook
Original Repair Operation Manual
Heritage certificate issued by the Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust.

The Interior

Gorgeous interior in superb condition, benefiting from a complete retrim during previous restoration
All interior switchgear and dials reported to be functioning, including original radio
Factory fitted air conditioning system

Retrimmed in wonderful deep Oxblood red leather and presenting in as-new condition, the interior of this E-Type is a really fabulous place to spend time. Looking around the cabin it’s immediately clear that this restoration has been completed to a very high standard indeed and with an eye to maintaining originality.

We note that the seats feature the correct type of perforated leather, and that the dashboard is topped in factory specification black vinyl. So often during high quality restorations the original charm of a car’s interior can be lost through excessive non-original additions, not so here and the end result just looks fantastic.

Internal brightwork, dials and switchgear similarly all present to a magnificent standard and how lovely it is to see the Jaguar fitted with its original black leather steering wheel, so evocative of this Series III car’s era.

The owner reports that all interior equipment functions as intended with the exception of the factory fitted air conditioning unit, which is likely to require a recharging of the refrigerant.

The Exterior

Gleaming black paint benefiting from a recent paint correction process at a cost of over £1000
Stunning ‘Open Two Seater’ body style sitting perfectly on factory option chromed wire wheels
Exterior body panels in fantastic rust-free condition with excellent panel gaps

The Series III has to certainly be a contender for the best looking E-Type of the bunch. With its longer body, purposeful flared arches and large cross-slatted grill, this is clearly an E-Type which means business.

Presented here in a glorious coat of glossy black paint and wearing European specification bumpers front and rear, one can really appreciate the E-Type’s fabulous curves. Clearly wearing its 20 years since restoration very well, the E-Type’s paint is free of any major imperfections or blemishes. On the closest of inspection we note some paint flaking around the bonnet vents, however this is very minor and doesn’t detract from the overall beauty of the car.

External brightwork of the Jaguar presents all round in tip-top condition as well as the soft top folding roof, which has a good colour and is free of any rips or tears to either the fabric or rear screen.

Shod in whitewall tyres with excellent tread, the factory option 15-inch chromed wire wheels appear free of significant corrosion and complete the stylish external look of the Jaguar.

The Mechanics

Fitted with Jaguar’s legendary 5.3-litre V12 powerplant and delivering its power to the rear wheels via a Borg Warner automatic transmission
Recently benefiting from an engine service by a known Jaguar V12 engine specialist
US-specification emission control equipment removed by current owner (supplied with the car)
In remarkably sound and rust free condition and reported to be in excellent running order

Having spent the first 30 years of its life in the dry climes of California and Texas, the underlying bodywork and structure of this E-Type are remarkably rust free.

With a complex monocoque and subframe construction, the underlying condition of any E-type’s shell is of paramount importance. Happily here, as demonstrated clearly by the attached photographs, this E-Type is as clean and sound underneath as it is up top - an obvious benefit of spending its first 30 years in sunny California.

The owner reports that the E-type starts keenly and runs very well, benefiting from a recent service by a known Jaguar V12 engine specialist based in Denmark. Additionally he reports that under his ownership the emission control equipment fitted to US-specification cars has been removed. This equipment (along with the US-specification bumpers) will be supplied with the car should a new owner wish to return it to original specification.

Out on the road the E-Type is reported to have excellent road manners with no concerns regarding handling, suspension or braking.

Summary

The Series III Jaguar E-Type is rightfully considered by many to represent peak E-Type. Featuring a gloriously smooth and powerful V12 powerplant combined with features such as power steering, air conditioning and improved braking, the Series III is a real pleasure to drive.

Presented here in ultimate ‘open two seater’ configuration, this Series III V12 E-Type now offers its next owner the opportunity to enjoy top-down classic motoring of the very highest order.

Notice to bidders

This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.

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