Lot 410: 1972 Jaguar E-Type Series III V12 Roadster

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 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, overhead-camshaft 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.
Other mechanical changes beneath the Series III’s more aggressive looking exterior included ventilated front disc brakes, anti-dive front suspension, Lucas transistorised ignition and Adwest power-assisted steering, 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.
Built in two-seat roadster and ‘2+2’ coupé versions, both of which used the long-wheelbase floorpan introduced on the Series II ‘2+2’, the Series III E-Type continued the Jaguar tradition of offering a level of performance and luxury unrivalled at the price.
This right-hand drive, automatic-transmission, Series III roadster is finished in blue with matching leather interior and described by the private vendor as in good condition throughout. No service or ownership history was to hand at time of cataloguing; however, it is expected that such information will be available at the sale. The vehicle is offered with Swansea V5 registration document.