Jaguar E-Type S3 V12 Coupe Automatic

Launched in 1971, the Series 3 V12 was the last and most luxurious of the E-Type range with a wider track, longer wheelbase, bigger tyres, revised suspension and a more spacious cockpit. 

Better proportioned than the earlier 2+2 E-Types, it had a beautifully muscular form and was easily a match for anything that the Italians had to offer and is still surprisingly undervalued by comparison. Weighing just a few pounds more than the smaller XK 4.2 engine it replaced, the alloy blocked 5.3-litre V12 produced only slightly more power (272 instead of 265bhp) but vastly more torque (349 instead of 283lb/ft).

This results in a quite different driving experience: gone is the XK snarl, replaced by quiet thunder and a sense of huge momentum in place of raw acceleration – although in fact the 0-100mph time of around 16 seconds made it the fastest-accelerating E-Type ever. In manual form, the 0 - 60mph benchmark is dispatched in just 6.3 seconds and 145mph is only a squeeze of the right foot away. Best of all, despite its size and complexity, the unstressed V12 has also got an enviable reputation for reliability.

First registered in May 1972, this particular E-Type has been in the current family ownership since 1986, although the name in the log book was switched from one family member to another in 2005.

Presented in red with a black leather interior, it has automatic transmission and a full-length Webasto sunroof. The car was in regular use until 1990 when it was driven into storage. The engine was started and the car moved regularly until about three years ago. Since then it has not been used at all although we are informed that the engine still turns and the car rolls freely. It will now need thorough recommissioning before it can be pressed back into use.