A matching number Series 3 V12 Fixed Head E Type 2+2 with a mere two UK owners
Since 2018 the car has been fully mechanically restored with over £22,000 spent
Resulting in an eminently usable E-Type with potential for some aesthetic improvement
The Appeal
The Jaguar E-Type is surely one of those rare cars that is instantly recognised by most. As such, it needs no introduction, achieving almost iconic status right from its 1961 launch thanks to its combination of performance and remarkable value for money. Officially the E-Type was built across three series between 1961 and 1975.
This Series 3 V12 2+2 car has enjoyed a cherished life in the ownership of a mere two keepers since being imported from the USA in around 2006. The current owner has spent over £22,000 getting the car fully mechanically sound resulting in a V12 Coupe that can be used and enjoyed, daily if required.
Complete with its original interior featuring a charming level of patina
The cabin is finished predominantly in black with splashes of chrome accents
Being the 2+2 model, occasional rear seats are fitted
Key to the E Type’s charm is its switch and gauge laden interior. This example doesn’t disappoint in that respect, of course. The dashboard is finished in black, textured vinyl. The large white on black Smiths main gauges sit ahead of a small three spoke alloy and leather retrofit steering wheel. The centre console is populated with no less than ten, individually labelled rocker switches. Above these are four smaller, ancillary Smiths gauges and a larger centrally situated clock. No head unit is currently fitted but one is included with other useful spares.
The seats are finished in black leather with just the right level of use related creasing and patina. The seat centres are finished in perforated leather and stitched into vertical box pleats. There is a little age-related sagging to the bases and the recline mechanisms may need some attention. These seats fold forwards to allow access to the rear seats. These are decidedly “occasional” in size but are in good, original condition.
The cabin carpets are finished in back and edge bound for enhanced longevity and luxury. The door cards and rear side panels are finished in black. The front ones are horizontally dissected by chromed trim pieces. Chromed door furniture is fitted. The light-coloured headlining is tightly fitted and original looking.
The generously sized boot is finished with a pair of carpets that would ideally need replacing. Under the carpet is an arrangement of wooden planks which create the floor. No spare wheel is present in the under-floor aperture.7vRGaGA9lrXqU0J0WOa8vkJQNrArB4Z0GG4gdZzT.jpg528.59 KB
The Exterior
The exterior of this E Type is finished in the popular Primrose Yellow livery
There is some potential for further improvement to the exterior presentation
It is all complete and original, however, with wire wheels and fantail exhaust finisher
The current owner has, very sensibly, concentrated on making this a highly useable, enjoyable and reliable driving experience. As such, he acknowledges that some further improvement to the aesthetics would be the obvious next step for the E Type. It is admirably solid, it seems, with mainly just attention to the paint and chrome work being required.
Like the interior, it is all complete and original looking with all the key, and often expensive to replace, parts present and correct. The light lenses and cabin glass all look to be original and in fine overall fettle. The signature fantail exhaust finisher is in good order too.
The cross spoked, chromed wire wheels are in a reasonable general condition and correctly affixed with Jaguar engraved, twin eared, central spinners. These 15-inch wheels are shod with a matching set of Pirelli P4000 tyres in the correct 205/70 configuration.
The mechanical systems of this E Type have been thoroughly and professionally restored
No expense has been spared in delivering an eminently and driveable example
Since 2018 the engine has been fully rebuilt by specialists Tom Lenthall Limited
The iconic 5.3L V12 engine as it was first introduced just a couple of years earlier in 1971. It was noted for being the first mass produced V12 engine to be used in the automotive industry. In original form it produced anywhere between 250bhp and 295bhp depending on exact specifications. Regardless of this the V12 engine makes a glorious noise through its fantail exhaust finisher.
This example, however, has undergone a full engine rebuild with a plethora of new and refurbished parts fitted and used by Jaguar specialists Tom Lenthall Limited. The schedule of works and parts are too extensive to list here but are detailed in the accompanying invoice photographs. The brakes and suspension of the car were also attended to at this point and a full timing chain and ancillaries replacement was also undertaken. The car has also benefitted from a full, professional rewiring to ensure that all electrical systems work as they should.
The big clamshell bonnet lifts to give excellent access to the impressive V12 engine. The condition under here is very good indeed. It looks admirably original and clean with the original data plates seemingly present. There is plenty of evidence, however, of the work undertaken including the T L Performance cam covers. The high-performance N. A. R. radiator and cooling system is also in evidence. The underside of the car looks reasonable with the most obvious attention seemingly required to the sills. GkJw8s09ywDukK63d27sYBdNXJZWoMYmLZ1KAd64.jpg444.66 KB
Summary
The current owner of this E Type has wisely concentrated on having a V12 coupe that can reliably and comfortably be used and enjoyed. He has done this in a very effective fashion, sparing no time or expense in ensuring the mechanical and electrical systems are in first class order.
As the aesthetic condition of the exterior and interior is far from poor it makes a lot of sense to approach ownership in this way. This now leaves the next lucky owner of this Jaguar with choices. They can either do the same and drive and regularly enjoy this car as it is. Alternatively, they can attend to the scruffier areas of the car, safe in the knowledge that nothing is left to do as far as the mechanicals are concerned. Either way, this is an exciting ownership prospect for E Type enthusiasts the world over.
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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