Positioning:
The Jaguar E-Type Series III represents the pinnacle of classic British sports car design, combining luxury, performance, and iconic styling. This manual serves owners and enthusiasts seeking to maintain and restore these valuable automobiles.
Competitors:
Competed against other high-performance grand tourers and sports cars of its era, such as the Ferrari 365 GT 2+2, Aston Martin DBS, and Porsche 911.
Features:
Iconic design, V12 engine, independent suspension, disc brakes, luxurious interior, strong performance heritage.
Engine:
V12 Engine (5.3L)
Fuel System:
Carburetion (Stromberg CDSE), fuel pumps, lines, filters
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, water pump, coolant circulation, thermostat
Lubrication System:
Oil pump, oil filter, oil passages, lubrication schedules
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system, wheels and tires
Electrical System:
Ignition system (Lucas), starting system, charging system (alternator), lighting, instrumentation, ancillaries
Bodywork:
Body shell, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, glass
Emission Control:
Emission control systems and adjustments specific to the era
Maintenance:
Periodic maintenance schedules, fluid changes, lubrication points
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault finding, common issues
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components
Disassembly Reassembly:
Complete disassembly and reassembly instructions
Torque Specifications:
Torque values for critical fasteners
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail suitable for both DIY and professional mechanics
Displacement:
5.3 Liters (5343 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
83.25 mm x 80.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.0:1 (typical)
Horsepower Bhp:
272 bhp @ 5850 rpm (SAE Gross)
Torque Lb-Ft:
304 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (SAE Gross)
Carburetor Type:
Four Stromberg CDSE 175 series twin-choke carburetors
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (octane rating appropriate for the era's fuels)
Oil Capacity Quarts:
Approximately 8-10 quarts (9-10 liters) with filter, depending on sump configuration.
Wheelbase Inches:
98.0 inches (2489 mm)
Overall Length Inches:
175.5 inches (4458 mm)
Overall Width Inches:
65.0 inches (1651 mm)
Overall Height Inches:
48.0 inches (1219 mm)
Curb Weight Lbs:
Approximately 3,400 - 3,600 lbs (1542 - 1633 kg), depending on body style and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Lbs:
Not typically specified as a distinct GVWR for such sports cars; focus is on curb weight and load capacity.
Crash Test Ratings:
Modern crash test ratings are not applicable to vehicles of this era. Safety features were designed to contemporary standards.
Brakes:
Girling hydraulic disc brakes on all four wheels, inboard rear discs for reduced unsprung weight.
Steering:
Power-assisted rack and pinion steering.
Seat Belts:
Lap and diagonal seat belts were standard equipment on later Series III models.
Construction:
Steel monocoque chassis with independent suspension for improved handling and safety.
Oil Change Interval Miles:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or annually.
Tune Up Interval Miles:
Recommended annually or every 6,000-12,000 miles, depending on usage.
Coolant Flush Interval Years:
Every 2-3 years.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity grades (e.g., 20W-50 or 10W-40 depending on climate and season).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check manual for specific recommendation).
Transmission Fluid Type:
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) - e.g., Dexron II or equivalent for BorgWarner; manual transmission fluid for manual gearbox.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF or specific power steering fluid as per manual.
Common Problems:
Carburetor synchronization and tuning, potential for overheating if cooling system is not meticulously maintained, electrical system gremlins, rust in common areas (sills, floor pans, boot floor), wear on suspension bushings.
Engine Specific Issues:
The V12 can be sensitive to cooling system integrity and proper fueling. Timing chain wear is also a consideration.
Heritage Summary:
Jaguar Cars, founded by Sir William Lyons, has a long and storied history of producing elegant, high-performance sports cars and luxury saloons known for their advanced engineering and distinctive styling.
Series Evolution:
The Series III was the final evolution of the iconic E-Type, distinguished by its longer wheelbase, flared wheel arches, and most notably, the introduction of the powerful 5.3-liter V12 engine. It also featured a revised grille and often came with air conditioning.
Production Years:
1971-1974
Production Numbers:
Approximately 1,577 V12 Series III E-Types were produced in total (Coupe, OTS, and V12 2+2).
Manufacturing Location:
Coventry, England
