1974 JAGUAR E-TYPE SERIES 3 V12 ROADSTER - LHD

This 1974 Jaguar E-Type Series 3 V12 Roadster is a charming example of the beautiful British classic, which benefits from a recent refresh and is presented in excellent cosmetic and mechanical condition. Under the bonnet is the carburettor-fed 5.3-litre V12 engine, which produces a claimed 272bhp and up to 295lb-ft of torque, driving the rear wheels via a four-speed manual gearbox. The odometer displays 29,092 miles from new, which the vendor believes to be genuine.

Introduced in 1971 in both 2+2 and roadster guises, the E-Type Series 3 featured several changes compared to its predecessors which made it more adept at comfortable cruising rather than lightweight thrills. This original left-hand drive example was manufactured on 26 February 1974 and was dispatched to British Leyland, New York, US on 25 March the same year.

Renowned for its shapely, elegant curves, this E-Type’s bodywork is in very good order, with smooth panels and even shut lines. The car has previously been resprayed in its original factory hue of Old English White, and the sidelights and over-riders were removed, and the paintwork is described by the vendor as being in excellent condition with no significant marks or blemishes to speak of. This roadster’s black convertible hood is also in good order and fits snugly over its frame with no rips or tears.

Replaced during the car’s recent refurbishment, the quad-pipe exhaust tips are also in great shape and have been polished to a high shine. This E-Type Series 3 rides on a set of 15-inch chromed wire wheels which present very well, with only minor surface corrosion on some of the spokes, and are finished with two-eared knock-off hub nuts.

In the cabin, the car’s Russet red upholstery is believed to be original, and provides a bright contrast to the white exterior paintwork. It has been gently rejuvenated, but retains a charming patina throughout. Both the driver and passenger seats present very well, and while there are some creases and minor scuffs to their leather coverings, there is remarkably little wear given the car’s age. There are also two small holes in the back of the driver’s seat, where a seatbelt guide was once fitted.

Elsewhere, the red door cards are in excellent condition, save for a slight split near the passenger’s window winder, and the matching red carpets and floor mats are all very smart for a 46-year-old car. The car is equipped with a period-correct Sankyo radio/cassette player and was fitted with air-conditioning from the factory. All of the interior switches and electrical items work, and there are no warning lights displayed on the dashboard.

This E-Type is in very good mechanical order, and was last serviced in September 2020 by classic British car specialist Enginuity in Acton, London. Prior to this, a number of other items were tended to during its time with the vendor. The braking system was overhauled, with new discs, callipers and hoses being fitted both front and rear. The exhaust system was also completely renewed, along with the coolant hoses, shock absorbers, wishbones, and suspension bushes.

Although it is exempt due to its age, the car’s last MOT test was conducted on 16 September 2020 at an indicated 29,075 miles, which it passed first time without a single advisory notice. All four wheels are fitted with classic-style Michelin tyres, which are described as being in excellent condition.

Accompanying the car is its protective tonneau cover, a spare chromed wire wheel which is mounted in the boot, and a Production Record Trace Certificate from the Jaguar Heritage Trust.

This Jaguar E-Type Series 3 V12 Roadster is a stunning open-top classic sports car, which is presented in a wonderful factory colour scheme. Recently refreshed and presented in superb condition throughout, this is a handsome and usable example of a motoring icon, and will no doubt bring a big smile to the face of its driver and onlookers alike.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence through HPI checks and MOT history where available. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.