5,343cc SOHC V12 Engine
4 Stromberg Carburetors
275bhp at 5,850rpm
5-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes

*Largely original and beautifully preserved example
*Originally delivered to Oregon with only 4 owners since new
*Plenty of V-12 grunt, desirable manual transmission
*The final iteration of the legendary Jaguar E-Type

THE SERIES III E-TYPE

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 III V12. Weighing only 80lb more than the cast-iron-block 4.2-liter XK six, the new all-alloy, 5.3-liter, 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 III's more aggressive looking exterior included ventilated front disc brakes, anti-dive front suspension, Lucas transistorized 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 wheel arches, a deeper radiator air intake complete with grille, and a four-pipe exhaust system distinguished the Series III from its six-cylinder forbears, plus, of course, that all-important 'V12' boot badge. The interior though, remained traditional Jaguar, and the Series III E-Type continued the Jaguar tradition of offering a level of performance and luxury unrivalled at the price.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This elegant and practical E-Type Coupe was completed at the factory in in the first two weeks of July, 1971 in the colors it appears today and delivered new the Robert B. Powell, Jr of Portland, Oregon on January 31, 1972. Well optioned with air conditioning and a five-speed manual, Howell would be a careful and loving owner of the car for the next 18 years, selling it through Monte Shelton Motors to its second owner, Henry Barbier, on April 20, 1990 with 28,918 miles showing on the odometer. Barbier would enjoy the car a further eight years before selling it to the Belgian enthusiast Robert Noortman. While in Noortman's ownership, it is understood to have been regularly maintained and sparingly driven in the summer.

The current owner acquired the car in February of 2004 and has kept the car on static display for the past 18 years. Today the car presents nicely, with a lovely patina after over half a century and only four owners. Showing under 45,000 miles on the clock today, it is possible that mileage may be from new. Given its long-term lack of active use, mechanical recommissioning will be necessary before active use.

Accompanied by books, a selection of tools, copies of titlework throughout its history, and a Jaguar-Daimler Heritage Trust Certificate, there's plenty to love. The family-friendly version of the iconic Jaguar model, this row-your-own 2+2 E-Type Jag is ready leap into its fifth owner's garage.