The Jaguar E-Type was ten years old and in need of a new lease of life. History repeated itself when Jaguar debuted its robust V12 engine in a sportscar instead of the saloon for which it was designed. Despite its sportscar heritage, Jaguar depended on saloon vehicles for its survival and had developed the twelve-cylinder engine to power them with sufficient torque and refinement. Larger and softer in nature and with weight redistributed 53/47, the Series III had lost the wilds of its youth but gained the long-legged touring profile to which it was arguably better suited. Robert Bell in Motor was quoted as saying at the time that 'all we expected to try was a new engine, but what in fact we drove was a new car. Not a yowling, aggressive Ferrari-like machine with which, perhaps, most people associate a V12 engine, but a very smooth, quiet and refined grand touring sportscar'.

This E-Type is presented in Azure Blue with a black interior and the all-important manual gearbox. The car is presented in smart useable condition with just some micro blistering on the bonnet and some corrosion beginning on the rear arches. It has recently been mechanically recommissioned at a cost of nearly £2,000 by Light Cars Action, who are highly regarding for their historic race car preparation and professional bodyshop. This work included a full refresh of the fuel system, cleaning the fuel tank, stripping down and refitting the clutch system with new parts and various other small jobs. The interior could very possibly be the original and wears a nice patina. Our vendor purchased this car in 1988 and has cherished it since however he has decided to offer it for sale as it isn't getting the use it deserves, and a new owner will be best placed to bring the car up to the next level. Supplied to auction with a comprehensive history folder and a V5C registration document. Consigned by Fraser Smith

Lot details
Year: 1974
Make: Jaguar
Model: E-Type Series III Roadster
Registration: JAG 66N
Chassis No: 1S2643
Engine No: 7S.15654-SA
Mileage: 53,141

* In current ownership for 37 years
* Manual gearbox
* Mechanical recommissioning in August 2024