By the time Jaguar released the Series 3 version, its iconic E-Type had morphed from a hard-edged Sports Car to a more elegant Grand Tourer. The availability of the V12 engine and an automatic transmission promised buyers a more relaxed driving experience. This first-year Series 3 is a 2+2 requiring total restoration. There is rust for the buyer to address, but the listing images suggest the problems aren’t extensive. The seller has listed the E-Type here on eBay in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Bidding has raced to $8,200 in a No Reserve auction.
Jaguar introduced the 2+2 variant to its E-Type range in 1966, increasing the car’s versatility and making it a viable alternative for enthusiasts with a young family. The 2+2 remained available until the last cars rolled off the Coventry line in 1974. The last hurrah for the E-Type was the Series 3, which was unveiled in 1971. This first-year version has been in storage for years, and the seller has decided to part with it because they have too many projects. It wears Regency Red paint, a shade available from 1969 to 1974. Close inspection reveals a selection of scratches and chips, and while none are severe, I have no doubt that the winning bidder will treat this classic to a full restoration. Rust is often a problem with the E-Type, and this car is no exception. However, the issues appear to be relatively isolated, with this shot showing some present in the floor. There is also some visible in one of the doors. Otherwise, this Jag seems to be pretty solid. Some trim pieces require replacement or a trip to the platers, but the tinted glass looks okay.
The biggest news with the release of the Series 3 was visible when owners tipped the hood forward. The 4.2-liter DOHC six-cylinder engine was no longer available, and the engine bay now housed the 5.3-liter V12. Power steering became standard equipment, and buyers could order an E-Type with the three-speed automatic transmission that first appeared in 1966. This 2+2 ticks all of those boxes, and with the V12 producing a factory-claimed 272hp and 304 ft/lbs of torque, it became an effortless long-distance tourer that could cope with the cut-and-thrust of city traffic. The seller indicates that this E-Type doesn’t run or drive, and it appears that it may not have done so for years. However, the car is mechanically complete, and the V12 turns freely.
A further indication of Jaguar’s shift from Sports Car to Grand Tourer is found inside this E-Type. Air conditioning became available in the Series 2, and remained an option until production ended. Combined with leather upholstery, it provided a feeling of genuine luxury. The Jag’s interior is complete, and the seller includes some additional parts. However, the front seatcovers are shredded, the dashpad has deteriorated badly, and the seat foam is collapsing. The carpet has seen better days, and the interior generally looks tired. It might respond positively to a deep clean, reducing the buyer’s shopping list to the mentioned items. Otherwise, the winning bidder may face the cost of a complete retrim to do it justice, a process that would cost at least $5,500.
This 1971 Jaguar E-Type 2+2 demonstrates how buyer tastes evolved during the car’s production life. It still retained its elegant styling cues, but the higher curb weight had blunted the impressive performance that was the badge’s hallmark. However, our featured car has generated considerable interest, partly due to the No Reserve factor. It has attracted thirty-four bids with time remaining for that figure to climb further. If you’ve ever owned or driven an E-Type, did you enjoy the experience enough to consider dropping a bid on this classic?
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