1971 Jaguar E-Type S3 V12 2+2

Between 1971 and 1975, a new 5.3 litre 12-cylinder Jaguar V12 was introduced, with uprated brakes and standard power steering. The short wheelbase fixed head coupé body style was discontinued and the V12 was available only as a convertible and 2+2 coupé. The convertible used the longer wheelbase 2+2 floor pan. It is easily identifiable by the large cross-slatted front grille, flared wheel arches and a badge on the rear that proclaims it to be a V12.

The story of the E-type is very well known, however, it is interesting to consider that the 2+2 coupés were often considered less desirable, which is surprising when you consider how stylish and usable they really are. The good news for someone wishing to purchase this car today is that, because of this misjudged preconception, these cars carry little premium and are incredibly good value. They really are a little gem of a car and are an eminently affordable entry to classic touring and pleasure rallying.

The car is finished in Regency Red with the original paint being in good condition overall, save for one or two minor blemishes. To the inside is cream leather presented immaculately as you would expect from a well cared for 1971 car with just 31,000 miles. Indeed, the interior is faultless, and, with the sensible addition of a professionally fitted Webasto sun roof, the cabin is a very comfortable place to be. When acquired by the vendor, the bonnet and bulkhead was still carrying a thick layer of the original factory underseal, an unsightly feature, but one that has proven beneficial in ensuring that this car is rot free and solid still today. You'll be pleased to know that the vendor has undertaken the removal of this ghastly underseal revealing the immaculate bodywork beneath.

Recent expenditure of nearly £5,000 with the Jaguar Workshop, London, means the car is sold with confidence and a full bill of mechanical health. Work undertaken included the replacement of exhaust manifolds, gaskets and down pipes, the supply and fitment of a reconditioned steering rack, replacement of all brake hoses, servo unit and the system was bled.The very capable 5.3litre V12 engine performs faultlessly, and mated to the tried and tested Jaguar automatic gearbox the result is an effortlessly comfortable yet deceptively powerful performance from this iconic and much revered E-Type.

Accompanying this Lot is a pleasing history file including MoT test certificates to 1976, the 1971 Jaguar Sales & Service Facilities handbook, an original Maintenance Handbook, the original Jaguar Passport to Service book showing the first owner in Ascot and many stamps to 27,000 miles in 1999, a host of past tax discs, two spare keys, and various invoices for remedial works.

Offered now for sale with fresh road tax, old style V5 document, and by time of sale a fresh MoT test certificate, this is an increasingly rare opportunity to acquire such a low mileage Series 3 E-Type in an interesting colour scheme and in a condition that anyone would be proud of.