Description
Whilst the concept of the Jaguar E Type was without doubt one of the finest pieces of automotive design ever to be put into general production, one of the problems with its continued development was the inevitable weight gain. Throughout the 1960’s ever more stringent safety legislation emanated from the USA and, as this market was a major breadwinner for Jaguar, it was perhaps unavoidable that the purity of the original design would be compromised to compete within it. Emissions legislation had forced the adoption of twin Stromberg carburettors on trans-Atlantic bound cars resulting in a reduction in power to 177bhp instead of the quoted 265bhp for European examples breathing through triple Webers.
However, the balance was to be redressed with the introduction of the Series 3 model powered by Jaguar’s new 5.3-litre, overhead camshaft V12 developing 272bhp. This resulted in a top speed in excess of 140mph with 0-100mph taking just 16 seconds, the fastest ever acceleration figures for the model. Revisions to the running gear included anti-dive geometry on the front suspension and ventilated disc brakes. Power steering was standard and flared wheel arches were incorporated to allow fitment of wider rubber to maintain grip.
A deeper radiator aperture with chrome grille completed the restyle. With manual or automatic transmission options the Series 3 ensured the immortal E Type would survive into the new decade of the 1970’s.
Finished in Jaguar Racing Green with a tan leather interior, this example presents very well and remains one of the most collectible classic cars of all time.
