Fantasy Junction

Description

1973 Jaguar XKE Type OTS Series III Roadster
s/n UDIS21662, Engine no. 7S9680LA
Silver with Blue Leather

In 1961 the E-Type was unveiled to the world. The decade had already been the start of many motorsports revolutions but the E-Type was truly a revelation in every respect. Everything about it was state of the art. From the groundbreaking mechanicals to the arrestingly gorgeous body, the E-Type was not only gorgeous, it surprisingly affordable. Informed by racing technology, the E-Type (also known as the XKE) included independent suspension all around (at a time when Ferrari was still using live rear axles), disc brakes all around (inboard at the rear to reduce unsprung weight), and of course Jaguar’s legendary twin overhead cam engine. It is no surprise that today the E-Type has become an important part of automotive history and remains highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts who enjoy driving their cars.

In 1971, Jaguar introduced a V12 engine to the model with the E-Type Series III, replacing the inline 6-cylinder engine used on the first and second series cars. The new V12 engine gave the car a more exotic profile along with a bit of luxury due to its smooth power delivery and more subdued engine noise. Further considerations were an increased length and wheelbase (to 105”), increased legroom and larger cabin space, flared wheel arches, revised bumpers, and a larger under-bumper air intake to allow for better cooling. The interior was also revised with a more modern steering wheel and improved storage.

This particular E-Type is a matching numbers 4-speed Series III which has never been restored. Finished retaining the original colors as delivered from the factory, it has had three owners from new. The car was originally delivered on 9 March 1973 to well-known Edmonton, Alberta theater producer, lawyer, and real estate developer Joseph Shoctor. Captivated by the beauty and performance the E-Type offered, Shoctor owned the car until his death in 2001, maintaining it properly and storing it indoors. The second owner, Lynn Bradsell (the wife of the executor to the Shoctor estate) purchased the car in 2001, subsequently selling it to the current owner in August 2004. Immediately after the purchase, the current owner drove the car from Edmonton, Alberta to British Columbia, a testament to the condition of the car at that time. The car was repainted the original color during Shoctor’s ownership, but otherwise remains largely original. The current owner has installed new carpets and tended to other minor cosmetic details during his ownership. Currently showing 43,200 miles, which is reported to be from new, recent mechanical work includes brakes and minor engine tuning primarily needed since the car has been only nominally used in recent years.

The car has a very nice overall original presentation inside and out, largely attributed to the low miles and proper care over the years. The paint is in generally nice condition with some chips in the front area, one on the passenger door, and a few minor marks along the rocker panels. The chrome trim is in nice condition overall retaining a clean and reflective luster with light hazing and a few minor scratches and other signs of aging. The chrome wheels are in generally nice condition however one wheel shows some pitting along the inner portion of the rim. The tires are in very good condition, with excellent tread remaining. Lighting, trim, glass, and lenses are all in good to very good condition with no notable blemishes and generally nice presentation. Correct Lucas headlamps are installed. The canvas convertible top is in good condition with a clear rear window. The original top boot is present with the car although it is missing one button fastener.

The interior is believed to be original with the exception of the carpeting installed by the current owner. The leather seats are still in very nice shape, retaining good bolster support, showing no major compromise to the stitching. Along the driver’s side seat, there is a small tear at the upper seatback piping and minor bolster wear, but otherwise, the interior remains quite nice for an original car. The dashboard, instruments, and steering wheel all present very nicely, evidently cleaned and cared for on a regular basis. The original British Leyland Bendix radio is in place but is inoperative

Jaguar expert Jim Groom recently evaluated the car and found it to be in generally sound condition. The engine compression is reported to be 130-145 in all cylinders with good oil pressure at idle and at 2500 RPM. During the road test, the car drove well, exhibiting only minor clutch chatter. A small leak can be seen from the power steering pump, and oil is seeping on the right side cam cover. A few recommended items include replacing the worn bushings on the left front wishbone, minor play in the left rear hub, and a leaking clutch slave cylinder. The brakes show 70% front and 80% rear with good stopping but likely the brake booster should be checked. In all, while needing some minor service work, the car is drivable as is, but will require a sympathetic service before being used extensively.

Under the hood, the car presents as a nice original example, being relatively clean and unrestored. The correct Stromberg carburetors and original induction system are in place. The underside of the car is structurally excellent and it is clear that the car was never used in inclement weather. The subframes are in good order.

Sporadic records from the previous owners are included with the car along with the owner’s manual pack, which includes the owner’s manual, service book (showing first service in April of 1973 at 1151 miles), wiring diagram, radio supplement, and dealer directory. A very nice original Series III E-Type OTS with known history and low miles, this E-Type is ready to be serviced with continued care, detailed by a passionate enthusiast, and welcomed by the next owner who is sure to enjoy miles of delightful motoring just as Jaguar intended when originally introduced.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608