1973 Jaguar E-Type Series III Coupe  Registration Number: W...

Hammer

£28,000

1973 Jaguar E-Type Series III Coupe 

Registration Number: WWE 386L                   
Chassis Number: 1S51036BW
Recorded Mileage: c.50,900 miles

- First owner for 44 years
- Recent expenditure of c. £20,000
- Matching numbers, manual gearbox

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 1960s 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 0-100 mph 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 1970s.

Despatched 26th April 1973 to British Leyland of New York, this Series III Fixed Head Coupe was specified in Regency Red with a Biscuit leather interior. The E-Type had just one American owner for the first 44 years, changing hands finally in 2017 at 48,500 miles. With just three private owners, since 2022 the E-Type has benefitted from significant mechanical expenditure. 

Recents works include a brake and suspension overhaul with replacement shock absorbers, springs, ball joints and track rod ends and new torsion bars. A new stainless exhaust system has been fitted, also the clutch hydraulics have also been overhauled. The paintwork is original and whilst in well preserved condition does show signs of minor defects. The leather interior is original and well preserved, though may benefit light attention. Offering good value in the current market, this genuine E-Type is offered with a UK V5C and Jaguar Heritage Certificate.