1973 Jaguar E-Type Series III V12 Convertible

This car sold for $50,600, including buyer’s premium, at RM’s Meadow Brook sale, August 3, 2002.

Denis Jenkinson, legendary English motoring journalist and co-driver for Stirling Moss when they won the Mille Miglia in the Mercedes 300 SLR, tested the brand-new Jaguar Series III V12 in comparison to his SII daily driver. His conclusion was that it could do everything the earlier six-cylinder E-types could do, just at 20 mph faster and at seven fewer miles per gallon. Concluding that he no longer had the reflexes or will to outwit the constabulary by cruising at 120 mph, nor would his expense account handle the double hit of rising petrol prices and decreased gas mileage, he decided to stick with his Series II.

In today’s market, enthusiasts seem to make much the same decision. In spite of the fact that the 5.3-liter V12 engine with its four Zenith Stromberg carburetors, two on each cylinder bank, offers much the same verve and performance as a V12 Ferrari, collectors aren’t willing to spend a premium over the six-cylinder cars.

In many ways, the Series III really was the best of the E-types. With a lengthened wheelbase, the model offered more space and comfort on the interior. Stylists would argue that in many ways, the design sorts out some of the awkward details of the SII, while preserving the voluptuous lines that characterize the entire E-type line. Of course, there was the problem of the punching-bag rubber bumper overriders that were Jaguar’s answer to the US bumper regulations instituted in 1974, the last year of the model.

At first glance, the V12 engine looks very complex. Pollution-control equipment, as well as standard power steering and air conditioning, with which most SIIIs were equipped, add a plethora of pipes, compressors, condensors and hoses to the engine compartment. Nevertheless, experienced Jaguar mechanics say the engine is one of the best features of the car. If it has been well maintained, it is quite reliable, and the one-piece bonnet makes all parts of it quite accessible. As an added bonus, in states with a rolling 30-year exemption for smog testing, modifications can now be made. Jason Len of XKs Unlimited says a replacement SU carb kit and removal of extraneous smog equipment can add 30 horsepower while improving gas mileage.

On the interior of the Series IIIs, safety regulations undermined the charm of traditional Jaguar design. Wood and metal trim had been replaced by padded vinyl. Metal toggle switches had been replaced by plain plastic rockers. And the lovely wood-rimmed steering wheels with polished plastic horn buttons had been replaced by a leather-wrapped rim and molded rubber hub. However, a large tachometer and large speedometer still bracketed the steering column, supplemented by a clock and four no-nonsense gauges above the console, all with black faces and white lettering.

This particular car was in excellent restored condition and the buyer was willing to pay at the upper end of the normal trading range for the quality of the restoration. There’s no indication that the car has been entered in any Jaguar Clubs of North America concours events, so the true test of the point-quality of the restoration is yet to come. And since the car has not been driven in the four years since it has been restored, it will surely need to be fettled.

Nonetheless, given the apparent thoroughness and quality of this restoration, this car should be considered well bought. If properly maintained and driven sparingly, it should do nothing but appreciate in the future.-Gary Anderson