1972 Jaguar E-Type Series 3 V12 Roadster
Registration no. XFJ 757K
Chassis no. 1S 1260
Engine no. 7S 5943 SB

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 3 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. Built in two-seat roadster and 2+2 coupé versions, both of which used the long-wheelbase floor pan introduced on the Series 2 2+2, the Series 3 E-Type continued the Jaguar tradition of offering a level of performance and luxury unrivalled at the price.
This V12 E-type roadster was delivered new in the UK in February 1972 to the A J Beal Ltd dealership in Exeter. The accompanying JDHT certificate lists the colour scheme as Signal Red with black interior, and the original registration as 'XFJ 757K'. According to the V5C, the car has had only three former keepers, the last of whom registered it in 1987. Its late owner acquired the E-Type in 2003.

'XFJ 757K' benefits from an extensive programme of improvements, including total chassis/body rust-proofing and the installation of a Getrag five-speed gearbox. Other specification highlights include Harvey Bailey anti-roll bar kits front and rear; Spax adjustable gas dampers all round; 3.54:1 differential (complementing the Getrag 'box); Lumenition electronic ignition; copper brake pipes and Aeroquip stainless steel hoses; up-rated radiator core; additional cooling fans; 12-branch exhaust manifolds; stainless steel exhaust pipes and main silencers; and a Pioneer six-speaker stereo system. Much of the work involved was carried out by marque specialists WP Automotive (Lister). A detailed list of the car's exceptional specification is on file together with an article on the restoration written by the late owner, published in the September 2005 edition of Jaguar Enthusiast magazine (inspection recommended).

Noteworthy features include a black-piped Parchment/beige leather interior; Beige carpets with rubber mats; MotoLita steering wheel; hood cover; black soft-top; fitted suitcase in the boot; and chrome wire wheels (the original steel wheels may be collected from the consignor). The history file contains various notes and receipts; an MoT certificate expiring in July 2023; and the aforementioned V5C, magazine article, and JDHT certificate.