One-owner ’74 E-Type Ready for the Barrett-Jackson Auction Block
Late Series 3 version of the iconic E-Type includes matching-numbers 5.3-liter V12, just over 26,000 miles on the odometer.
It’s certainly easy enough to know when a Jaguar rolls by. Whether it’s an I-Pace, an XJ-S, or an XK120, the styling gives it all away. If there’s any Jaguar which stands out above the rest, though, it’s the iconic E-Type. The Swingin’ Sixties roadster is an enduring symbol of Britannia, after all. When this rolls up, the Union Jack flies in the wind, and “God Save the Queen” proudly fills the air from the stereo system.
And we’re certainly experiencing those feelings now. We recently discovered this 1974 E-Type Series 3 at Barrett-Jackson. It’s one of many cars ready to make their trip through the house’s first-ever virtual auction, set for May 8 through 17.
This one-owner E-Type wears the federally-mandated black rubber bumper nubs front and rear, as well as a partial repaint of its Green Sand color. One of these things is more attractive than the other, but it’s also an excellent example of how things were in the period between the hippies and the disco swingers.
Under the long hood of the E-Type is its 5.3-liter V12. The mill is linked to the rear via a four-speed manual. The matching-numbers V12 made 272 horses in its day, each owing its life to the forge that is the Le Mans 24. Such power pushed the roadster to 60 mph in around seven seconds.
Inside, the E-Type packs some fine tobacco leather. The seats are as broken in as a well-used baseball glove. The power steering makes driving a breeze. The AC provides plenty of cool breezes with the top up in the summer. Speaking of the top, you’ve got a clear view of the rain you’re leaving behind with the big, clear vinyl rear window.
This E-Type not only looks amazing, but it has plenty of documentation, too. An original manual, receipts, and a Jaguar Heritage Certificate revealing its date of birth (September 13, 1973) complete the car’s story. We have a feeling its next owner will write a few chapters of their own with this legendary ride.
Photos: Barrett-Jackson
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