The last E-Type Jaguar rolled off the production line in 1974, yet the model still has a unique ability to excite enthusiasts of all generations; its Malcolm Sayer-penned lines generally considered to be among the most striking ever to adorn a motorcar. Born of Jaguar's competition successes on the race track, the newcomer was a true thoroughbred. From birth it was available either as a fixed head Coupe or a two-seater Roadster. For 1966, a 2+2 version of the Coupe was added to the range that was nine inches longer and featured a more vertical windscreen. The Series 3 cars were introduced in 1971, all but a handful of which were fitted with Jaguar's new 5.3-litre V12 engine. The original (short) wheelbase was discontinued and the revised car offered only as a Roadster (now based on the longer 2+2 floorpan) or 2+2 Coupe. Production of the Series 3 model continued until 1975, when the range was superseded by the XJS; by which time some 15,000 V12-engined examples had been produced - most of which were exported to North America. The purposeful-looking Series 3 E-Types are readily identified from their predecessors by the large cross-slatted radiator grille, flared wheel arches, wider track and V12 badge on the rear.

This smart-looking Series 3 Roadster is a right-hand drive example from 1973, equipped with automatic transmission. It sports Red coachwork teamed with a Tan leather interior and Black mohair hood. The vendor informs us that the interior is original, but that the bodywork and engine were thoroughly restored over a 10 year period at a cost of some £70,000. He currently regards the bodywork, paintwork and engine as "excellent", the interior trim as "very good" and the three-speed transmission as "good". 'WDJ 700M' is being sold complete with an extensive history file and MOT into October.