History

The Jaguar E-Type, or XK-E for the North American market, is arguably the British automaker’s magnum opus. Aside from its staggering-at-the-time 150 mph top speed and sub-7-second 0 to 60 mph acceleration, the E-Type used a front subframe rather than the ladder-frame chassis that was common at the time. The result was an incredibly light, front mid-engined sports car that weighed a mere 2,899 pounds. Other largely unheard-of developments introduced by the E-Type include a mostly unibody construction, front and rear independent suspension with inboard disc brakes at the rear, and rack-and-pinion steering.

The Jaguar E-Type was built in three series from 1961 to 1974. The Series 3 was introduced in 1971 with a number of notable changes from its brethren. Under the signature long hood was a new 5.3 L Jaguar V12 engine with four Zenith carburetors backed by better brakes and standard power steering. Power reportedly reached 272 hp, accompanied by increased torque. Available options included an automatic transmission in place of the four-speed manual, wire wheels, and even air conditioning. Body-wise, the short-wheelbase E-Type was discontinued for the Series 3, leaving only the longer convertible and 2+2 coupé. Aesthetic changes for the Series 3 included a large grille with a cross-slatted design, flared wheel arches, wider tires, four exhaust tips, and a proud V12 badge at the rear. The final Jaguar E-Type Series 3 was reportedly built in June 1974 after a total run of 15,287 cars. Of those, 7,990 were convertibles and 7,297 were 2+2 coupés.

This Car

This particular example, Chassis #UE1S25228, is a later E-Type Series 3 convertible that was built in March 1974 and left the factory in April of that same year. It was sent to Bennet Jaguar of Allentown, PA, where it was sold to its first owner, who kept the car until 1985. From the factory, this E-Type was finished in Silver over a Dark Blue interior with a Black convertible top, although the first owner had it repainted in a shade of medium Blue at some point during their ownership. The car changed hands sometime in 1985 and has remained in the second owner’s possession since then.

Starting in 2005, Ragtops & Roadsters of Perkasie, PA, undertook a thorough cosmetic restoration of this E-Type, along with a mechanical refresh and subsequent servicing thereafter. Beginning with the first invoice on file from December 3, 2004, at Mike Kipila’s Service Center in Allentown, PA, to the last invoice from August 26, 2024, at Ragtops & Roadsters, the process totaled $148,041.34, but left this E-Type looking and performing as it should. The car was repainted in its original Silver,and during the process received a few cosmetic modifications, including smaller bumpers with overriders and a covered headlight conversion. The interior upholstery and convertible top were both refinished in a matching black, along with new wire wheels. Mechanically the care received a proper sorting. Including but not limited to the cylinder heads being removed and rebuilt along with the majority of other ancillary mechanical components as well as brakes, and suspension.

As it sits, this is a well tended to example of the last production run of the Jaguar E-Type. It has the presence of a show car, high marques of originality under the bonnet, and is turn key mechanically.  Regardless of whether a concours-type event, a cars & coffee, or an organized rally this example can fit a variety of uses.  Upon purchase, the new owner will receive the manuals, all restoration and service records on file, a JDHT Certificate, car cover, jack, spare, and other minor spares included in the sale. 

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