Jaguar E-Type V12 (1971-74)

COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.

The **Jaguar E-Type V12** had a few common issues:

1. **Amplifier Heat Sensitivity**: Some V12 E-Types experienced running problems as they warmed up. This could be related to the amplifier suffering from heat. Ensure your new amplifier is functioning correctly.

2. **Spark Plug Discrepancy**: If the right bank spark plugs are completely black while the left bank is white, it indicates an uneven fuel mixture. Investigate fuel delivery and carburettor adjustments.

3. **Cooling System and Heater Problems**: The heater may not blow hot air even when the engine is at full temperature. Check for blocked heater matrices or coolant flow issues due to improper self-bleeding.

4. **Suspension Corrosion**: Inspect the suspension components for signs of corrosion, especially the rear radius arm. Road salt and grime can affect the undercarriage.
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Generations/Trim Levels
Please Note: Generations and Trim Levels Across Countries
Generations and trim levels of vehicles often vary between countries as manufacturers tailor models to meet the preferences and requirements of specific markets. For example, a trim level designated as “GL” in the UK might be labelled as “XS” in another country. Due to these regional differences, the information provided on this site pertains exclusively to UK-specific products.

The **Jaguar E-Type V12** had **three generations**. It was introduced in **1971** with a new 5.3 L Jaguar V12 engine, uprated brakes, and standard power steering. The later model updates were officially designated as **"Series 2"** and **"Series 3"**. The earlier cars are often referred to as **"Series 1"**.
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Body Style/Variants
The **Jaguar E-Type** was offered in several body styles and variants during its production:

1. **Roadster (OTS)**: The open two-seater convertible version.
2. **Coupe (FHC)**: The classic hard-top hatchback with a fixed roof.
3. **2+2 Coupe**: A four-seater version with a lengthened wheelbase, introduced in 1966.
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Trim Levels
The Jaguar E-Type V12, particularly the Series 3 models produced from 1971 to 1974, came in a few different configurations rather than distinct trim levels. Here are the main versions:

1. **E-Type V12 Roadster (OTS - Open Two-Seater)**:
- **Features**: Convertible body style, 5.3-litre V12 engine, and a choice of manual or automatic transmission.
- **Interior**: Leather seats, wood veneer dashboard, and optional air conditioning¹.

2. **E-Type V12 Fixed Head Coupe (FHC)**:
- **Features**: Hardtop body style, 5.3-litre V12 engine, and a choice of manual or automatic transmission.
- **Interior**: Similar luxury features as the Roadster, with additional rear seating in the 2+2 version.

3. **E-Type V12 2+2**:
- **Features**: Extended wheelbase to accommodate rear seats, making it a 2+2 configuration.
- **Interior**: Leather seats, wood veneer dashboard, and optional air conditioning.

These configurations allowed buyers to choose between a sporty convertible, a classic coupe, or a more practical 2+2 version, all powered by the impressive V12 engine.
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Engine/Performance
The 1971 Jaguar E-Type V12 Coupe offered impressive performance for its time. Here are the key performance figures:

- **Engine**: 5.3-litre V12
- **Power output**: 272 bhp (203 kW)
- **Torque**: 412 Nm (303 lb-ft)
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 6.4 seconds
- **Top speed**: Around 148 mph (238 km/h)

These performance figures made the Jaguar E-Type V12 Coupe one of the most iconic and desirable sports cars of its era.
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Rivals
In 1971, the main rivals to the Jaguar E-Type V12 Coupe offered the following performance:

- **Aston Martin DBS V8**: The Aston Martin DBS V8 featured a 5.3-litre V8 engine producing around 320 horsepower. It had a top speed of about 160 mph and could accelerate from 0-60 mph in around 5.9 seconds.
- **Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona**: The Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona was equipped with a 4.4-litre V12 engine producing around 352 horsepower. It had a top speed of about 174 mph and could accelerate from 0-60 mph in around 5.4 seconds.
- **Porsche 911S**: The Porsche 911S had a 2.4-litre flat-6 engine producing around 190 horsepower. It had a top speed of about 144 mph and could accelerate from 0-60 mph in around 6.5 seconds.
- **Chevrolet Corvette C3**: The Chevrolet Corvette C3 featured a 5.7-litre V8 engine producing around 300 horsepower. It had a top speed of about 140 mph and could accelerate from 0-60 mph in around 6.0 seconds.

These performance figures reflect the competitive landscape of high-performance sports cars during that era.
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Designer/Dimensions
The Jaguar E-Type V12 Coupe was designed by Malcolm Sayer, an aerodynamicist who applied aircraft streamlining principles to car design. Sir William Lyons, the founder of Jaguar Cars, also had significant input in the design.

As for its dimensions, the Jaguar E-Type V12 Coupe had the following measurements:
- **Wheelbase**: 105 inches (2,667 mm)
- **Length**: 184.49 inches (4,686 mm)
- **Width**: 66.26 inches (1,683 mm)
- **Height**: 48.23 inches (1,225 mm)
- **Kerb weight**: 3,450 lbs (1,565 kg).
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Spares/Specialists NI
If you're looking for **Jaguar E-Type** parts in the UK and Ireland, here are some options:

1. **SNG Barratt**: SNG Barratt is the world's largest independent manufacturer and supplier of classic and modern Jaguar car parts. They offer parts for various Jaguar models, including the E-Type.

2. **Ken Jenkins Classic Jaguar Specialist**: Based in Worksop, Nottinghamshire, they provide new and second-hand quality parts for Jaguar cars, along with workshop services.

3. **Moss Europe**: Moss Europe offers a range of Jaguar E-Type parts and spares online, with fast shipping and easy returns.

4. **123spareparts.co.uk**: Visit their website to find suitable parts for your Jaguar E-Type.
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Specialists NI
Here are some Jaguar specialist mechanics in County Antrim, Northern Ireland:

1. **Stephen Groves Jaguar Specialist**:
- **Location**: Belfast, Hillsborough, and Lisburn
- **Services**: Jaguar servicing, MOT preparation, diagnostics, and repair work
- **Contact**: [Stephen Groves Jaguar Specialist](https://www.stephen-groves.co.uk/).

2. **Blakely Vehicle Services**:
- **Location**: Belfast
- **Services**: Electrical and mechanical repairs, diagnostics, and servicing
- **Contact**: [Blakely Vehicle Services](https://blakelyvehicleservices.co.uk/independent-jaguar-specialist).

3. **McMillan Specialist Cars**:
- **Location**: Antrim
- **Services**: Jaguar servicing, mechanical repairs, and advanced diagnostics
- **Contact**: [McMillan Specialist Cars](https://mcmillanspecialistcars.com/car-service-prices/jaguar/).

Jaguar specialist mechanics in County Down, Northern Ireland:

1. **Andrew Lindsay Specialist Cars**:
- **Location**: 2 Vestry Road, Ballygowan, Newtownards, BT23 6HJ
- **Services**: Jaguar and Aston Martin servicing, mechanical repairs, and advanced diagnostics
- **Contact**: 028 9754 2979
- **Website**: [Andrew Lindsay Specialist Cars](http://andrewlindsayspecialistcars.com/)

Jaguar specialist mechanics in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland:

1. **MIM-NI Ltd.**:
- **Location**: 6 Carrakeel Industrial Park, Maydown, BT47 6UQ
- **Services**: Mechanical installations and maintenance
- **Contact**: 028 7186 1244
- **Website**: [MIM-NI Ltd.](https://www.mim-ni.com/)
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Racing
The Jaguar E-Type V12 did participate in racing, particularly in the United States. Here are some key points about its racing history:

1. **Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) Series**:
- The introduction of the V12 engine in 1971 gave the E-Type a new lease of life in racing. It saw significant success in the SCCA series in the USA, particularly with drivers like Lee Mueller and Bob Tullius.
- Bob Tullius' Group 44 team raced the V12 E-Type and had a successful season in 1974, culminating in winning the SCCA Group B championship in 1975.

2. **Historic Racing**:
- The V12 E-Type has also been a popular choice for historic racing events, where its performance and classic design are celebrated.

The V12 engine provided the E-Type with the extra power needed to compete effectively, especially in American racing circuits.

The Jaguar E-Type V12 achieved significant success in racing, particularly in the United States. One of its most notable achievements was winning the **Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) B-Class championship** in 1975. This victory was secured by Bob Tullius and his Group 44 racing team.

The Group 44 E-Type V12 was highly competitive, winning 12 out of 17 races during its career. This success helped maintain Jaguar's racing heritage and demonstrated the performance capabilities of the V12 engine.

Also, the Jaguar E-Type V12 participated in several other major races, particularly in the United States. Here are some notable examples:

1. **Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) Series**:
- The E-Type V12 was a significant competitor in the SCCA series, especially with Bob Tullius' Group 44 team. They achieved considerable success, including winning the SCCA B-Class championship in 1975¹².

2. **IMSA GT Championship**:
- The E-Type V12 also competed in the IMSA GT Championship, where it faced off against other high-performance sports cars of the era³.

3. **Historic Racing Events**:
- The E-Type V12 has been a popular choice for historic racing events, such as the Goodwood Revival and the Monterey Motorsports Reunion, where its performance and classic design are celebrated³.

These races highlight the E-Type V12's versatility and enduring appeal in the racing world.
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Valuation
The value of a 1971 Jaguar E-Type V12 Coupe in the UK today can vary depending on the condition, mileage, and history of the car. Here are some approximate values based on recent listings:

- **Well-maintained examples**: Around £42,500 to £139,950
- **Restored or upgraded models**: Up to £105,000

These values are approximate and can vary based on the specific car and its history.
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Clubs
There are clubs in Northern Ireland for Jaguar E-Type V12 owners to join. One notable club is the [Jaguar Enthusiasts' Club](https://jec.org.uk/regions/ni), which has a Northern Ireland region. They organize monthly outings, social events, and provide a platform for Jaguar owners to connect and share their passion.

Another option is the [Jaguar E-Type Club](https://www.e-typeclub.com/), which is dedicated purely to Jaguar E-Types. They offer membership, events, and a community for E-Type enthusiasts.

These clubs provide a great opportunity to meet fellow Jaguar E-Type V12 owners and participate in various activities and events.
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