1974 JAGUAR E-TYPE SERIES 3 V12 ROADSTER

This Jaguar E-Type Series 3 Roadster is a smart example of the swansong for the marque’s iconic sports car. Boasting a 5.3-litre V12 engine producing up to 272bhp, the S3 also came with uprated brakes and power steering as standard. In a right-hand-drive configuration, this UK-market car also has the manual gearbox for a more involving open-air driving experience.

First registered on 3 May 1974, MHE139M currently shows 2,269 miles on the odometer, though the odometer was reset at approximately 88,000 miles in around 2007 – so the correct total is believed to be just over 90,000 miles. It is understood that the engine was replaced in 2005-06, though of course it retains the correct specifications. The car was originally painted in Pale Primrose Yellow from the factory, but the colour change to blue was recorded in late 2007.

Today, the paintwork presents with a deep and glossy lustre, with straight panel work accented with good chrome detailing. The vendor notes some slight bubbling to the top half of the bonnet and some front sill corrosion on both sides of the vehicle. Spending much of its life in storage over the past 10 years, the car has been kept clean and tidy – particularly under the bonnet. The chrome wire wheels were replaced in 2004, and while they show some minor surface blemishes, they are still in good order.

The cabin has a full black leather interior, which has been re-trimmed, but which is the original factory colour. There are some minor marks and creases on the seats, but they are in excellent condition, with no damage or noticeable discolouration. Its three-spoke steering wheel may well be original, as it has a handsome aged appearance around the leather rim. The dashboard presents very well, as do the black carpets. A new mohair soft top was fitted in December 2016 and still looks to be in good condition with a clear rear screen. There are no known faults to the controls and switchgear.

Offered with a thick ring binder of history, the last oil and filter service was undertaken by Powells of Ripon in March 2020 at an indicated 2,269 miles and included the replacement of braided fuel hoses. Invoices for £7,542 from November 2017 include a full gearbox build retaining the vehicle’s original casing, as well as new brake discs and pads, plus a range of sundry components.

Now MOT exempt, the most recent MOT test was on 20 July 2017 at 2,095 miles with no advisories. MOT history back to 2006 helps to corroborate the Jaguar’s recent mileage, and the odometer reset in around 2007. The Pirelli P4000 tyres are reported to have good depth.

Supplied with a Jaguar E-Type operating and maintenance manual, and a Jaguar Heritage Trust Production Record Trace Certificate, the accompanying folder is full of invoices, pictures, ownership records and details of maintenance and restoration going back over 20 years, showing the care and attention this E-Type has been pampered with by its enthusiastic owners.

This Jaguar E-Type Roadster offers arguably the most refined driving experience of all the models, benefiting from production improvements and a smooth and powerful V12. The presence of a manual transmission in this example lends it more appeal to the keen driver, though this car is a stylish cruiser at heart. In good order throughout, this sought-after British classic is ready to offer its new owner many miles of enjoyable classic motoring.

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