1973 Jaguar E Type Series III FHC

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9:09 AM, 19 Oct 2021Auction ended
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Background

The Jaguar E-Type first appeared on the world stage some 60 years ago. Undoubtedly a huge success for Jaguar, the car was highly desirable and that remains the case even to this day, with every enthusiast wanting to have one in their garage.

By 1971 over 57,000 had been produced with 83% exported around the world. Despite minor updates, the car was beginning to show its age. A new engine was amongst the requirements, a nod to America’s demands for lower emissions.

A V8 was considered, but in the end engine designers settled on a V12 configuration. Amazingly their technical know-how resulted in a powerplant with more efficient combustion and improved mid-range power – job done!

This basic engine design became a staple Jaguar fitment for 25 years.

The Series 3 not only showcased the new engine, but there were also many other changes too. The longer wheelbase allowed a tad more passenger space, whilst styling changes such as the larger grille and flared wheel arches gave the Jag a more contemporary look. More aggressive too in some eyes…

As before both convertible and fixed head coupes versions were available. Power steering and a limited slip differential were standard fitments, and the brakes were beefed up to cope with all that extra power.

Inside there were many detail improvements including a smaller leather trimmed steering wheel, improved heating and ventilation, new seats, and a revised dash layout.

When introduced, the E-Type roadster cost about double the annual wage of a factory worker. However, with the performance potential to worry rivals from Aston Martin and Ferrari, and costing less than half their equivalent offerings, the E-Type Series 3 was set fair for success.

Despite the gorgeous looks, and now with the performance to back them up, the E-Type’s days were sadly numbered as owners were becoming increasingly demanding. It was therefore decided that the V12 engine needed a new home.

So, in 1975 E-Type production ceased and the following year saw the arrival of the XJ-S. All we can say is, be careful what you wish for!

Oh, and we had an exceptionally long wait for the E-Type’s true successor, with the F-TYPE finally appearing in 2013.

Estimated value

£35,000 - £42,000
  • 1S51746
  • 93446
  • 5343
  • Manual
  • AZURE BLUE
  • BLUE
  • Right-hand drive

Vehicle location
Alyth, Blairgowrie, United Kingdom

Background

The Jaguar E-Type first appeared on the world stage some 60 years ago. Undoubtedly a huge success for Jaguar, the car was highly desirable and that remains the case even to this day, with every enthusiast wanting to have one in their garage.

By 1971 over 57,000 had been produced with 83% exported around the world. Despite minor updates, the car was beginning to show its age. A new engine was amongst the requirements, a nod to America’s demands for lower emissions.

A V8 was considered, but in the end engine designers settled on a V12 configuration. Amazingly their technical know-how resulted in a powerplant with more efficient combustion and improved mid-range power – job done!

This basic engine design became a staple Jaguar fitment for 25 years.

The Series 3 not only showcased the new engine, but there were also many other changes too. The longer wheelbase allowed a tad more passenger space, whilst styling changes such as the larger grille and flared wheel arches gave the Jag a more contemporary look. More aggressive too in some eyes…

As before both convertible and fixed head coupes versions were available. Power steering and a limited slip differential were standard fitments, and the brakes were beefed up to cope with all that extra power.

Inside there were many detail improvements including a smaller leather trimmed steering wheel, improved heating and ventilation, new seats, and a revised dash layout.

When introduced, the E-Type roadster cost about double the annual wage of a factory worker. However, with the performance potential to worry rivals from Aston Martin and Ferrari, and costing less than half their equivalent offerings, the E-Type Series 3 was set fair for success.

Despite the gorgeous looks, and now with the performance to back them up, the E-Type’s days were sadly numbered as owners were becoming increasingly demanding. It was therefore decided that the V12 engine needed a new home.

So, in 1975 E-Type production ceased and the following year saw the arrival of the XJ-S. All we can say is, be careful what you wish for!

Oh, and we had an exceptionally long wait for the E-Type’s true successor, with the F-TYPE finally appearing in 2013.

Video

Overview

We are delighted to be offering for sale a splendid example of a Series III FHC. Presented in Azure Blue with a complimentary hide interior, its condition belies its years.

The last owner bought the car around three years ago, paying a fiver under £50,000 for it. It was his dream car and one which he proceeded to lavish time and cash on. The work carried out included a full rear axle rebuild and a complete overhaul of the braking system.

Sadly the owner recently passed away and respected local business Classic Restorations (Scotland) are helping the family to sell the car.

They report that the E-Type starts first time, has no visible leaks, doesn’t smoke, but does like a drink of unleaded.

This lovely car wants nothing more, we believe, than a caring new owner.

Exterior

The paintwork is in generally great condition and has a deep and lustrous shine. There is the odd stone chip here and there, but this is to be expected on a near 50-year old car.

A little attention may be required to the finish on the lower valance, but this should not prove to be overly difficult or expensive.

We have spotted a light scratch or two on the nearside front wing, but these may polish out.

There’s lot of shiny chrome to take in on this lovely old Jag and most of it looks to be in fine condition.

The period correct wheels are fitted and look to be in fine fettle. Most importantly, a premium Pirelli P4000 tyre is fitted to each, all with plenty of tread. Good matching tyres are generally an excellent indication of careful and considered classic car ownership.

Interior

What could be nicer than hunkering down in the comfortable leather driver’s seat, firing up that sonorous V12, slipping the gear-lever into first and wafting off into the sunset. Perfect!

The seats themselves, probably the originals, have aged gracefully and want nothing more than a little gentle cleaning and perhaps then an application of a quality hide food.

And let’s not forget that coupe variants of the E-Type Series III do boast back seats. Adult's will fit, just, but not for any length of time. Children on the other hand will love it.

The dash contains a raft of instrumentation, ideal for keeping an eye on pressures and levels when on the road.

The lower dash area looks a tad jaded, but the door cards are in good condition with just a small area of damage behind the pull handle.

Pop open that side hinged rear door and prepare to be greeted by a generous luggage compartment. Under the floor lurks a full-size spare wheel and an assortment of tools. There are also a few emergency spares too, such a fan belt.

Mechanical

We always include a selection of pictures of a car’s underside for your delectation and that is the case here.

There is a little surface corrosion to some of the components, but from what we can see the structure looks sound and is protected by plenty of underseal. We would get the car up on some ramps and reapply generously in places, especially if the car is to be used all year round.

Lift the bonnet and it is hard not to be impressed by the lovely Jaguar V12 engine. Powerful, refined and mated to a slick manual gearbox for maximum driving pleasure.

The whole engine bay is impressively clean and well prepared, with no visible signs of any leaks that we could spot. Careful maintenance has clearly been the key.

We are told the car drives exceptionally well, pulling strongly in each gear. It starts on the button too, the recent battery clearly helping in this regard.

History

Sadly, we cannot tell you much about the car from its time before the last owner acquired it in 2018.

As already mentioned, he spent a not inconsiderable £16,000 tackling a multitude of jobs, both large and small. The rear axle and braking system overhaul are undoubtedly the highlights.

In the accompanying blue folder there exists some older documentation including some Jaguar booklets.

The last MoT was carried out in October 2018, the mileage then 91,408. The E-Type passed with no advisories. The car has covered around 2,000 miles since then.

Summary

Good Jaguar E-Types always attract great interest, and this is undoubtedly one of the best Series III coupe's we have seen in a while.

It drives well, with looks to dazzle and amaze. It has clearly been well looked after over the last few years which has paid dividends.

This year is also the 60th anniversary of the start of E-Type production. So why not buy this car and join in the celebrations. You’ll be glad you did!

We estimate the car will sell for between £35,000 and £42,000.

Viewing is always encouraged, and this car is located with the vendor in Alyth, Blairgowrie, Scotland. To arrange an appointment please use the ‘Contact Seller’ button at the top of the listing. You won’t be disappointed!

About this auction

Seller

Private: GraemeJ2474


Viewings Welcome

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and is strictly by appointment. To book one in the diary, please get in contact.

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