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. Jaguar’s flirtation with V12 engines had begun back in the early 1960s with a 5.0-liter, four-cam unit designed to take the Coventry firm back to Le Mans, scene of its five glorious victories in the 1950s. Bulky and expensive to produce, this competition-orientated design was eventually abandoned in favor of a simpler, two-cam unit that produced superior bottom-end torque, a characteristic that would endow the V12 E-Type with impressively flexibility and effortless top-gear acceleration.

Weighing only 80lb more than the cast-iron-block, 4.2-liter XK six, the new all-alloy, 5.3-liter 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 transistorized 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. 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.

As Autocar magazine remarked: ‘The model’s immense performance, its silky smoothness and its utter predictability are just some of the things which make for a driver’s car second to none.’

Handsomely finished in Argentinian Racing Blue (one of six in this color), this Series III V12 E-Type was receiving a new blue canvas top (in 2005). A California car all its life, it offers the benefits of the ‘full power’ (pre-detox) engine, automatic transmission and small front over-riders, universally considered far more attractive than the subsequent ‘5mph’ type. Fast, reliable and possessing fabulous quality and finish, this highly desirable V12 E-Type .
Wire wheels possible if desired.
More pictures availible soon............

Price € -,-