Much has been written about the E-Type Jaguar and its dramatic unveiling at the 1961 Geneva Motor Show; and it became the iconic British sports car through various iterations and improvements, ending in the Series 3 V12, introduced in 1971 with final production in 1975. The car had a 5.3L V12 engine delivering turbine-like power at 272 BHP, more effective brakes, and a longer wheel base, which both the convertible and 2+2 coupe shared.
This particular car started life as a 2+2 and was bought in 1994 by the vendor to add to his classic car collection, but after 7 years, in 2001, it was decided to convert it to a convertible as an experiment and a preference for open top motoring. Using Jaguar approved panels from Martin Robey, and parts from M & C Wilkinson, new hood from Don Trimming Co. Ltd, it was professionally modified by well know car restorers Meon Valley Classics in Droxford, at a cost upwards of £10,000. Having the same bonnet, doors, door cards, etc was a success, and consequently the car was recognised by the DVLA and the insurance company as a genuine convertible. Letters as proof are available.
The car has matching engine and chassis numbers, and all the chrome work, the door cards, carpets, instruments (apart from the electronic speedo) are original. All the leather seats and head rests are also original and nicely patinated, and it also has the rear seat conversion instead of the storage box. The radio/cassette player is a period Panasonic model and still works. the mileage is low at 40,000 miles, which is shown by all the MoT's going back to the 70's.
Over the years much money has been spent on the car uprating it, including; bigger front anti roll bar, Koni dampers, poly bushed front suspension, carburettor rebuilds and re-tuning, Lumenition ignition system, stainless steel exhaust system, new discs/pads, electronic speedometer, the list goes on. A major improvement in 2008 was the fitting of a 5 speed Getrag gearbox and full engine mechanical overhaul when it was out of the car, including all hoses, clips etc at a cost of over £12,000 by Jaguar specialist Hollygrove Jaguar in Ringwood (all bills are available). This gave the car better fuel economy, with a higher 5th gear giving effortless cruising at Autobahn speeds and better acceleration through the well-spaced gear ratios.
The car has recently had a full meticulous service. It doesn't require an annual MoT now, but all the old ones are available showing the low mileage. the car has also had a new brake master cylinder and servo overhaul, so it stops well, and recently has had a ceramic guard application to the cellulose, paint plus engine detailing. The 15" rim wire wheels are shod with classic Blockley radial tyres, 205 70VR 15's, with plenty of wear left.
The car has very rapid acceleration with the 5 speed box modification, and the garage has said that after test runs, post service, drivers reported it the quickest V12 that they've ever driven.
