1972 Jaguar E-Type Series 3 V12 2+2 Coupé
Registration no. MAB 702K
Chassis no. 1S50988

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 3 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 3'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 3 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 floor pan introduced on the Series 2 2+2, the Series 3 E-Type continued the Jaguar tradition of offering a level of performance and luxury unrivalled at the price.

Equipped with the desirable manual gearbox, this delightful V12 E-Type was purchased by the current owner in September 1989 and has seen only occasional use over the course of the last 30 years. For most of that time the car has been dry stored in dehumidified conditions, and for the last 12 years has been on museum display. Between 1991 and 1993, the E-Type was with Classic Coach Builders, who carried out extensive bodywork restoration and a re-spray (estimates and invoices on file). The interior was left original. It is worth noting that, in common with the other cars and motorcycles in the owner's collection, this E-Type has benefited from regular maintenance and upgrades, as well as rectification of minor faults, carried out by his own fully qualified fitter. Freshly MoT'd, this well maintained E-Type is offered with sundry bills, SORN paperwork, and an old-style V5C Registration Certificate.