1974 Jaguar XKE E-Type Convertible

Jaguar introduced the Series III in 1971 with the Walter Hassan/Harry Mundy-developed 5.3-liter SOHC V12 engine. The new V12 engine rested in a 105-inch longer-wheelbase floor plan of the 2-plus-2 variant, and only roadster and 2-plus-2 models were produced. The preceding short-wheelbase Fixed-Head Coupe body style had been discontinued.

The new Series III had a large cross-slatted radiator grille, flared wheel arches, a wider track and bigger tires. They had all the American Federal Regulations features of the preceding Series II models along with uprated brakes and power steering as standard.

Production of the new Series began in 1971 and continued to 1975 with some 15,200 examples produced.

This Jaguar was completed at the company's Browns Lane factory in June of 1974. It is believed that the car was delivered to the United States when new. It is a left-hand drive example that left the factory finished in silver metallic over red. Currently it has just over 18,000 miles since new.

It is believed that the original owner retained the car until 1980, when its most recent previous caretaker purchased the car. The silver exterior has been refinished at some stage, presumably in the 1980s.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2015