Sold 1974 Jaguar E-Type V12 Roadster 2146354321 Tweet

1974 Jaguar E Type Series III Roadster
s/n UEIS25209BW, Engine no. 7S15967LA
Black with Tan Leather

In 1961 the E-Type was unveiled to the world. The decade had already experienced many motorsports revolutions but the E-Type was truly a revelation in every respect. Everything about it was state of the art. From the groundbreaking mechanicals to the arrestingly gorgeous body, the E-Type was not only beautiful it was surprisingly affordable. Informed by racing technology, the E-Type (also known as the XKE) included independent suspension all around (at a time when Ferrari was still using live rear axles), disc brakes all around (inboard at the rear to reduce unsprung weight), and of course Jaguars legendary twin overhead cam engine. It is no surprise that today the E-Type has become an important part of automotive history and remains highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts who enjoy driving their cars.

In 1971, Jaguar introduced a V12 engine to the model with the updated E-Type Series III. The new V12 engine gave the car a more exotic image with a dash of luxury due to its smooth power delivery and more subdued engine sounds. Further revisions included an increased length and wheelbase (to 105), increased legroom and larger cabin space, flared wheel arches, revised bumpers, and a larger under-bumper air intake to allow for better cooling. The interior was also revised to include new reclining seats, an updated center console, and new door panels and steering wheel. The dashboard retained much of the Series II layout, but included 2+2 stowage areas above the footwells.

This particular E-Type is an exceptionally well-resolved car, and is likely the finest Series III E-Type we have encountered. Nearly stock aesthetically, it has been comprehensively but subtly upgraded to deliver a superb driving experience. Purchased new in 1976 by the father of the current owner, this is a low-mileage car that has covered 40,000 miles from new and shows clear pride of ownership. Originally painted brown, the car has been repainted to very high standards in black while mechanical upgrades were performed to the engine, driveline, and suspension.

Preserved by the father and updated by the son, each played a role in building a car with enhanced performance features, while being respectful of the Jaguar marque. Experts at Just Jag in Indianapolis, IN comprehensively rebuilt the V12 motor with attention to both aesthetic appearance and performance internals. Estimates for the rebuild puts power output at about 325hp at the flywheel (originally 254hp in 1974). During the rebuild, the starter and alternator were rebuilt, six Weber carburetors were fitted, and electronic ignition was installed. A new alloy radiator was also installed to improve cooling as well as a new heater motor to ensure warm open motoring in cooler climates. The car was also fitted with a new Tremec 5-speed manual, which includes a tall 5th gear for relaxed highway cruising and nicely spaced lower ratios for spirited performance driving. A new clutch and flywheel were also installed and the driveshaft was balanced before being reinstalled. A new stainless steel exhaust system was fit to the car including custom headers, and Spax adjustable shocks were fitted at all four corners. The cosmetics on the car were also improved with all cad and chrome plating professionally redone, while new Dunlop tires mounted to D-Type style alloy wheels, adorned with triple-eared center hub knock offs. The car was also treated to new rubber trim as needed, gaskets, and all latches were replated using correct factory finishes. The interior was redone with proper tan leather with perforated inserts, new carpets installed, and a new chocolate brown canvas top also fitted. All instruments were redone by Palo Alto Speedometer, and an electronic disconnect switch was installed. The finished car has since covered only minimal miles, mostly for pleasure use and the occasional showing.

Today, this E Type roadster delivers a muscular hunkered down stance, defying the typical civility of the refined V12 Series III E-Type. The D-Type style inspired wheels combined with the handsome black paint creates a sporting and purposeful presence. The paint and body display very high gloss, excellent finish throughout, and very nice panel gaps. The body appears to be original and structurally sound, an impression supported by the 40,560 indicated miles on the odometer. The chrome is very nice throughout with excellent fit to the body and beautiful consistent luster. The unsightly original 1974 US bumpers have been replaced by the vastly more attractive earlier type bumpers. The glass, lenses, various trim, and script lettering are all nicely presented and beautifully detailed. The overall presence of the car is one of a refined but stealthy performance-minded E-Type.

The interior is beautifully presented, having been restored with quality leather, correct seat pleating and piping, and proper carpeting and heel pads. Door panels, dash, and center console are all in very nice condition, showing taut upholstery, excellent seams, and beautiful detailing. The instruments are in excellent condition with contrasting lettering and color, clear glass, and correct operation. Completing the interior, a beautiful steering wheel, correct style seatbelts and preserved rocker switches all contribute to the cohesive authentic appearance. Nicely finished interior details include the properly covered doorsills, unique black crackle finish ashtray, and interior chrome bonnet releases. The chocolate brown canvas top fits snugly to the windshield, while the trunk compartment has been nicely trimmed with matching tan material.

Opening the bonnet of an E Type is always an exciting experience. In the case of this car, it is all the more impressive when the engine, suspension, and gorgeous Weber carburetors with velocity stacks are immediately revealed. Here, the race-inspired heritage is confirmed with every finished detail, professionally modified to a very high standard. Not only are the 6 Weber carburetors beautifully trimmed, their polished linkage, tidy lines, and assorted hardware delight the eye far more than the dizzying array of lines and wires formerly concealing the gorgeous Jaguar V12 engine. One not only sees the artfully cast engine, custom headers, and polished components, the brilliant suspension, brakes, and aluminum radiator all confirm this Jaguar is ready to perform as well as it looks. All finishes are very nicely done with proper respect to the original design, but celebrated with modern performance upgrades to improve the driving experience.

The car starts easily and with a touch of drama that promises a very special driving experience. The Tremec 5-speed shifter slips easily into gear as power comes on smoothly with mild throttle. Once the engine is warmed up, its possible to investigate the potential, and the cars personality becomes more clear. A civilized and refined car when needed, there is also an evocative, almost brutal character to the car that can be unleashed at will. The exhaust sounds magnificent, and the induction roar from the carburetors is intoxicating. The thrust is genuinely remarkable and dramatically different from the standard Series III E-Type, thanks to both the responsive and visceral character of the engine and the more closely spaced gear ratios. The gearbox is a pleasure to use, with slick linkage and excellent synchromesh. It is as easy to use as any modern car. Cornering and braking are quite good overall with excellent feel due in part to the new shocks and well balanced wheel and tire package. There is a snubbed down feel to the chassis which is missing from the standard Series III E-Type, while the steering remains light but precise thanks to the power assistance. The underside of the car is preserved and well cared for, showing no notable signs of structural compromise. Records for the upgrades and general service along with the owners manual and older registration documents are included with the car. Also included are the jack, extra keys, car cover, books, and tools.

This magnificent E-Type delivers a superb blend of good integrity with excellent history and thoughtfully executed and extremely effective upgrades. The original spirit of the E-Type remains intact, but is delivered with an urgency and intensity that was never part of the roadgoing car. The entire car has been beautifully executed and the resulting experience is a joy to behold, not only aesthetically, but also dynamically.