Jaguar E-Type Serie III V12 Roadster (1973)

British Icon with a Magnificent V12 – the 1973 Jaguar E-Type Series III V12 Roadster

When Jaguar unveiled the E-Type in 1961, the new model immediately caused a sensation. With its long bonnet, low seating position and flowing bodywork shaped by Malcolm Sayer, the E-Type represented an unusual combination of engineering ambition and sculptural design. Its distinctive appearance, together with its blend of sporting performance and long-distance touring capability, made it one of the most significant British sports cars of its era.

Technically, the E-Type was based on Jaguar's extensive experience in international motorsport. Independent suspension, disc brakes and powerful engines made it an exceptionally advanced sports car, while its elegant bodywork played a major role in its subsequent cult status. The concept was continuously developed over more than a decade before Jaguar introduced the Series III, the final and most comprehensively developed version of the model.

From 1971 onwards, the new 5.3-litre V12 took centre stage. The 5,344 cc twelve-cylinder engine gave the E-Type an entirely new character. In place of the more sporting character of the earlier models came an exceptionally refined and effortless delivery of power. Combined with the three-speed automatic transmission, the Series III E-Type became a highly comfortable Grand Tourer, capable of making impressive use of its reserves of power, particularly on longer journeys.

Jaguar also further developed the E-Type's styling. The longer wheelbase, distinctive front end and wider wheel arches gave the Series III a more powerful presence without compromising the unmistakable basic shape of the E-Type. It is precisely this combination of the iconic original design and the effortless V12 technology that makes the final E-Type generation particularly appealing to this day.

The vehicle offered here dates from 1973 and is presented today in an elegant silver finish with a dark blue leather interior. The E-Type was originally delivered in Prime Rose Yellow and was repainted silver shortly after its delivery in 1973. The current colour combination gives the Roadster a discreet yet highly stylish appearance and emphasises the powerful proportions of the Series III.

The E-Type spent its first decades in the United States before being imported into Switzerland in 2002. Its history can be traced through a selection of original documents. These include the original Maintenance Handbook, the former US Certificate of Title and the original identification plate. These period documents provide particularly interesting historical documentation and offer a direct insight into the car's past.

With an indicated mileage of 76,000 kilometres, the Jaguar offers an interesting proposition for enthusiasts of the classic V12 E-Type. Considerable investment has been made in its mechanical condition in recent years. An invoice from May 2026 documents extensive work on the engine and gearbox, as well as numerous other mechanical and electrical components. This included work on the valve train, timing system, seals and ancillary components. The suspension, braking system, steering and electrical system were also addressed as part of this work.

Cosmetically, however, the E-Type still offers clear potential for further improvement. The current vehicle inspection notes various paint imperfections, scratches, dents and areas of dull paintwork. While these signs of use do not detract from the car's technical appeal, they provide the new owner with the opportunity to further develop the Jaguar according to their own preferences. Particularly given the extensive work already carried out on the mechanical side, this represents an appealing starting point for a careful cosmetic refurbishment.

The E-Type's recent history further underlines its promising overall basis. In spring 2026, the Jaguar successfully underwent its Swiss veteran vehicle inspection. This confirms its status as a historic vehicle for continued use and underlines the preservation-worthy character of this classic V12 Roadster.