5.3 Liter V12/Sable Brown No Rust/Leather Interior

1974 Jaguar E-Type Roadster Description

1974 Jaguar E-Type Roadster

The facts about the Jaguar E-type are etched into every car nut's consciousness: it was derived from a racing car; it was designed by an aerodynamics boffin, not a "stylist"; its stiff chassis and supple suspension gave it a smooth ride and great road-holding. Normal people, meanwhile, know the E-type as an icon of 1960's freedom - a performance car with a bird-pulling image. "The greatest crumpet-catcher known to man," as US journalist Henry Manney described it.

For consignment a curvaceous "crumpet catcher" with a V12, sexy leather interior, and an instant converted drop top from top up, and you are Austin Powers all over again...Yeah Baby!

Exterior
In 2006 this car 's exterior was totally stripped, remediated of any rust that has accumulated on the body work, and resprayed with Sable Brown. It still retains its shine, and the steel panels retain their consistent gaps. Nice thin wrap around bumpers in very good condition adorn the front and rear. These have their federally mandated 5 MPH crash bumpers, however they can easily be removed for a cleaner look. A side view is candy for the eyes as the line in this car is unmatched. 15-inch wire wheels with knockoff hubs are wrapped with 205/65R15 Pirelli P6 blackwall radials (no Avons here!).

Interior
The consigner stated that a partial restoration to the tan interior has taken place since the exterior work, and all is looking good. Beige leather covers the sleek door panels that have just a few marks on them from access and egress which can be tight in these sports cars. Leather seats are crack free, and the driver's seat has slight water staining on the outside facing bolster. On the dash we note Smiths gauges with black bezels that have some paint chipping. In the center of the dash is a lineup of gauges showing battery volts, oil pressure, a central clock, water temp, and petrol level. Below this lineup is a bevy of toggle switches that control all the electrics on the car. Up top on the padded dash top is a crack directly above the battery volt gauge. Beige carpet covers the floors and has some staining.

Drivetrain
Pulling the bonnet forward we can reveal the entire engine bay and front suspension and have unlimited access to all areas. Neatly inside is an original unrestored 5.3 liter V12 engine, which is fed by 4 Stromberg Zenith Carburetors, 2 on either side of the V12. An original 4-speed manual transmission is on back, and the rear axle sports 3.54 gears. Surfaces display a nice patina and light surface rust with light corrosion.

Undercarriage
Looking good underneath with rust free components, and nice straight steel frame and floorpans. There is some rust beginning on the driver's side "torque box" and surface rust is noted on some suspension and braking parts. Independent coil spring suspension is all around, as are power disc brakes. Exhaust has some surface rust but remains solid and leak free.

Drive-Ability
I'm a sucker for anything British so of course I had my hand in the air to test drive this beauty, and I was totally satisfied upon my return from the test track. After a full choke start, and half choke warmup, it ran just beautifully, with loads of top end power, nice ride, and good cornering. The V12 has a sound like no other, and it was definitely a head turner. Nearly like driving a piece of sculpture, a very pleasant overall experience.

One of the most desirable cars when the first version came out in the early 1960's that were based on the late 50's Jaguar race car designs, this car was instantly wildly successful. Unfortunately, the US Government and their constantly changing regulations killed this car, however we are fortunate to have those examples still around like this one, that can be driven and enjoyed. A true rolling example of automotive art.

VIN Decode
UE1S25493
U-USA
E-1974
1S25493-Sequential Unit Number (Chassis Number)

Classic Auto Mall is a 336,000-square foot classic and special interest automobile showroom, featuring over 500 vehicles for sale with showroom space for up to 1,000 vehicles. Also, a 400 vehicle barn find collection is on display.
This vehicle is located in our showroom in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, conveniently located just 1-hour west of Philadelphia on the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. The website is www.classicautomall.com and our phone number is (888) 227-0914. Please contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.