1975 Jaguar E-Type Series III Commemorative Roadster
Registration no. JPL 872N
Chassis no. 1S.2855
Engine no. 7S.15904-SA

One consequence of the E-Type's long process of development had been a gradual increase in weight, but a good measure of the concomitant loss of performance was restored in 1971 with the arrival of the Series III V12. Weighing only 80lb more than the cast-iron-block 4.2-litre XK six, the new all-alloy, 5.3-litre, overhead-camshaft V12 produced 272bhp, an output good enough for a top speed in excess of 140mph. Further good news was that the 0-100mph time of around 16 seconds made the V12 the fastest-accelerating E-Type ever.

Other mechanical changes beneath the Series III's more aggressive looking exterior included ventilated front disc brakes, anti-dive front suspension, Lucas transistorised ignition and Adwest power-assisted steering, while automatic transmission was one of the more popular options on what was now more of a luxury Grand Tourer than out-and-out sports car. Flared wheelarches, a deeper radiator air intake complete with grille, and a four-pipe exhaust system distinguished the Series III from its six-cylinder forbears, plus, of course, that all-important 'V12' boot badge. The interior though, remained traditional Jaguar. Built in two-seat roadster and '2+2' coupé versions, both of which used the long-wheelbase floor pan introduced on the Series II '2+2', the Series III E-Type continued the Jaguar tradition of offering a level of performance and luxury unrivalled at the price.

The rare and exclusive E-Type offered here is one of 50 special roadsters built to commemorate the end of the model's production in 1974. The chassis number sequence commenced at '2822' and ended with '2872', all bar one of the 50 cars being finished in black.

First registered on 18th March 1975, chassis number '1S.2855' is the 17th from last E-Type ever made and one of only 19 manual transmission cars in this series. Sold new in 1975 by Coombs & Sons of Guildford, it was registered 'STD 1' and remained with its first owner for just 10 months. In January 1976 the E-Type passed to the second, and last, registered keeper and was reregistered as 'JPL 972N'.

The second owner enjoyed his car for the next 37 years, during which time it was very well maintained and very well cared for. A vast amount of service invoices and previous MoTs is included in the sale, confirming that the recorded mileage of 36,875 is correct. In fact, 'JPL 872N' has only travelled 9,000 miles since 1978. The original service book carries 10 supplying-dealer service stamps prior to that date, all accompanied by the dealer's detailed service records.

In 2008 the vehicle commenced a three-year refurbishment (though by no means a restoration) by E-Type UK and has covered only 393 miles since its completion. All components, engine bay, running gear, suspension and paintwork received a highly detailed refurbishment to achieve a breathtaking concours-standard 'better than new' car. Additionally, the cooling system and suspension have been brought up to modern day standards making this E-Type even more enjoyable to drive. The interior remains totally original and the car comes complete with its original hood, tonneau cover and factory hard top. 'JPL 872N' currently runs on chromed wire wheels but included in the sale are its original chromed steel wheels shod with very rare Dunlop SP whitewall tyres. The spare wheel is unused and the original tool kit is included in the sale together with a complete set of original handbooks, spare keys and wallet containing the original 'Passport to Service' book.

This last-of-the line Jaguar E-Type is everything the enthusiast could wish for; the engine bay in itself is spectacular and the entire car is absolutely outstanding, faultless in every respect. With its limited ownership, un-restored condition and low mileage, this must be one of the best V12 E-Types to come to the market in recent times.