Lot 322: 1973 Jaguar E-Type Series III V12 Coupé

‘The V12 E-Type was at its best as a long-distance, high-speed tourer. There were few cars which could match its top speed and 120/130mph cruising ability, even amongst the exotica from Italy, and none at all the silence and smoothness of its engine.’ – Paul Skilleter, The Jaguar E-Type.
One consequence of the E-Type’s long process of development had been a gradual increase in weight, but a good measure of the concomitant loss of performance was restored in 1971 with the arrival of what would be the final version – the Series III V12. Weighing only 80lb more than the cast-iron-block, 4.2-litre XK six, the new all-alloy, 5.3-litre V12 produced 272bhp, an output good enough for a top speed in excess of 140mph. Further good news was that the 0-100mph time of around 16 seconds made the V12 the fastest-accelerating E-Type ever. Beneath the skin, ventilated front discs improved braking power and the front suspension gained anti-dive geometry. Lucas transistorised ignition and Adwest power-assisted steering were now standard, while automatic transmission was one of the more popular options on what was now more of a luxury Grand Tourer than out-and-out sports car. Flared wheelarches, a deeper radiator air intake complete with grille, and a four-pipe exhaust system distinguished the Series III from its six-cylinder forbears, plus, of course, that all-important ‘V12’ boot badge. The interior though, remained traditional Jaguar.
Finished in British Racing Green with olive green leather upholstery, this Series III E-Type was restored in 1983, although there are no supporting receipts. Heavily Waxoyled, the ‘chassis’ has been well preserved, while the engine starts easily (on full choke) idles smoothly and is free revving. There are no audible knocks or rattles. The automatic transmission selects all gears, although reverse is sometimes slow to engage. An above average example that would reward a modicum of remedial work, the car is offered with a quantity of receipts and expired MoTs, SORN, Swansea V5 registration document and MoT to August 2008. We are advised that the car is recorded in the International Jaguar E-Type Register.