After the brilliant first-series Jaguar E-Type debuted at Geneva in 1961 with inline six-cylinder power, the car’s basic design progressively matured through 1971 with a switch to the smoother, turbine-like V-12. Known as Series III cars and offered through 1974, they also featured a larger bonnet bulge, larger, flared wheel openings, a slightly wider track, a revised grille and updated bumpers. The convertible now rode on the longer 105-inch wheelbase. The interior was also entirely new, including the seats and door panels. The center console was redesigned, there were still many aircraft-like toggle switches and a smaller, dished, leather-rimmed steering wheel fitted. Advertising forwarded the car as being “The Ultimate Cat.”

With power brakes and steering, a 272 horsepower, 5,343-cc V-12 engine, and a fully synchronized four-speed manual gearbox, the final-series cars are very capable and refined Grand Touring machines, while also retaining the sensuous lines of their predecessors. Automatic transmissions were also available as an option and this example is fitted with one. Today they rightly continue to captivate legions of collectors and marque enthusiasts and are ever growing in popularity.

The XKE being offered looks great with its red and tan color presentation. The desirable optional wire wheels are secured by a single securing nut and give it the classic, nostalgic look and feel of the original XKE while still having creature comforts such as air conditioning and additional cockpit room. Whitewall tires, dual rearview mirrors, Stromberg carburetors, four-wheel disc brakes, Kenwood AM/FM/cassette and Smiths instrumentation add to the period British style and functionality.

It is hard to find a more famous motoring background anywhere than that behind the Jaguar E-Type. The celebrated C-Type and D-Type paved the way in international racing competitions and the lessons learned on the tracks were then applied to the first E-Types and continued this spirit throughout their run. Reports show that approximately 7,900 Series III Jaguar Roadsters were built.