🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jaguar

Model:

E-Type

Series:

Series 3

Body Style:

Open Two Seater (OTS)

Chassis Code Prefix:

1R1...

Engine Code Prefix:

1R...

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Jaguar E-Type Series 3 represents the pinnacle of the marque's sports car lineage, characterized by its iconic design, V12 engine, and luxurious grand touring capabilities. This manual serves the critical need for owners and restorers of these valuable classic automobiles.

Competition:

Competed with contemporary grand tourers like the Aston Martin V8, Ferrari 365 GTB/4 'Daytona', and Chevrolet Corvette Stingray. The E-Type's combination of performance, styling, and relative affordability set it apart.

Vehicle Features:

Long bonnet, aerodynamic shape, independent suspension on all wheels, powerful V12 engine, disc brakes all around, luxurious interior (for its era).

Value:

An indispensable resource for anyone undertaking restoration, maintenance, or simply wishing to understand the componentry of a Series 3 E-Type OTS. Crucial for identifying correct part numbers and ensuring originality.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Parts Catalog / Illustrated Parts List

Secondary Coverage:

Identification of components for Jaguar E-Type Series 3 Open Two Seaters

Estimated Page Count:

350-450

Type:

Parts Catalog

Language:

English

Format:

Printed

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Components:

Engine block, cylinder heads, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, valves, timing gear, lubrication system, cooling system (radiator, water pump), fuel system (carburetors/injection, fuel pump, lines), exhaust system.

Transmission And Drivetrain:

Gearbox (manual/automatic), clutch assembly, driveshafts, differential, half-shafts, hubs.

Chassis And Suspension:

Frame/chassis structure, front suspension (wishbones, torsion bars, kingpins, anti-roll bars), rear suspension (independent trailing arm, hubs, shock absorbers, springs), steering system (rack and pinion, steering column, linkages).

Brakes:

Front discs, rear discs, calipers, brake master cylinder, brake booster, brake lines, parking brake mechanism.

Electrical System:

Wiring harnesses, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior lights), ignition system (distributor, coil, spark plugs), charging system (alternator, regulator), starter motor, battery, gauges, switches.

Bodywork And Trim:

Body panels (bonnet, doors, boot lid, fenders), windscreen, side windows, convertible top mechanism, bumpers, grille, emblems, interior trim (dashboard, seats, door cards), weatherstripping.

Wheels And Tires:

Wheel nuts, hubcaps, wheel spokes, tire sizes (original fitment).

Cooling System:

Radiator, cooling fan, hoses, thermostat, expansion tank.

Identification:

Part number identification for all listed components, cross-referencing of superseded part numbers.

Assembly:

Illustrated diagrams showing the correct assembly of sub-assemblies and major component groups.

Disassembly:

Visual guidance on the order and method of component removal (implied through exploded views).

Depth:

Detailed, specific part identification with associated part numbers and quantities. Essential for restoration, repair, and parts sourcing. Focuses on 'what' and 'where' rather than 'how-to'.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

N/A (Printed)

Print Quality:

Typically good to very good, with clear line drawings and legible text, reflecting original Jaguar print standards.

Binding:

Likely a comb-bound or perfect-bound paperback, or a hardcover archival binding depending on original publication or reproduction quality.

Paper Quality:

Durable paper stock, often matte or semi-gloss, suitable for workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Jaguar V12 (4.2L initially, then 5.3L for Series 3)

Displacement:

5343 cc (5.3 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

91.0 mm x 69.0 mm

Horsepower:

Approx. 272 bhp (net) at 5,850 rpm (UK spec, European spec may vary)

Torque:

Approx. 318 lb-ft (net) at 3,600 rpm (UK spec, European spec may vary)

Fuel Delivery:

Four twin-choke Weber carburetors (4x2bbl) or Lucas Fuel Injection (optional, less common on OTS)

Ignition Type:

Distributor-based, single ignition coil

Cooling Type:

Water cooled, pressurized system

Oil Type:

API SF or SG rated, SAE 20W-50 recommended (check manual for exact spec)

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 10.5 Imp. Quarts (9.3 Liters) with filter change

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-speed Manual Transmission (Moss gearbox with overdrive common in earlier Series 3)

Transmission Type Optional:

3-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., Borg-Warner Model 12)

Overdrive:

Available on manual transmissions (optional/standard depending on market/build date)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 rated gear oil, SAE 80W-90 or 75W-90 (check manual for exact spec)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III or equivalent (check manual for exact spec)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4,300 mm (169.3 in)

Width:

Approx. 1,670 mm (65.7 in)

Height:

Approx. 1,140 mm (44.9 in) (Top up)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,591 mm (102.0 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,480 kg (3,263 lbs) (Manual), 1,530 kg (3,373 lbs) (Automatic)

Seating Capacity:

2

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

No formal ratings available from modern crash test agencies due to era of production. Designed with crumple zones and robust chassis for its time.

Brakes:

Four-wheel disc brakes (Dunlop/Girling) with servo assistance

Steering:

Recirculating ball steering (earlier Series 3), rack and pinion steering (later Series 3 OTS)

Seatbelts:

Lap belts standard; three-point inertia reel belts became optional/standard later in Series 3 production.

Windscreen:

Laminated safety glass

💡 Technology Features

Original Infotainment:

Original Lucas radio (optional), analog gauges (speedometer, tachometer, oil pressure, water temperature, fuel, ammeter).

Driver Assistance Features:

None by modern standards. Focus on driver engagement and mechanical feedback.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles or 12 months (whichever comes first), using high-quality oil.

Tune Up Interval:

Recommended annually or every 10,000 miles for optimal performance, focusing on ignition timing, carburetor adjustment, and valve clearances.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 glycol-based brake fluid (check manual for exact spec and compatibility with original seals).

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, 50/50 mixture with distilled water (e.g., Prestone)

Grease Points:

Regular lubrication of suspension, steering joints, and driveshaft U-joints is critical. Use a good quality lithium-based grease.

Rust Prone Areas:

Chassis outriggers, wheel arches, sills, floor pans, rear valence, body mounting points.

Engine V12 Characteristics:

Can be sensitive to overheating if cooling system is not meticulously maintained. Carburetor synchronization is crucial for smooth running. Potential for oil leaks from multiple seals.

Electrical System Issues:

Original wiring harnesses can degrade over time, leading to intermittent faults. Lucas components can be temperamental.

Transmission Issues:

Moss gearbox synchros can wear. Automatic transmissions require diligent fluid level checks and replacements.

Part Scarcity:

Many original parts are rare and expensive, making accurate part number identification from this catalog essential for sourcing replacements.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Jaguar Cars, founded by Sir William Lyons, has a storied history of producing elegant, powerful, and technologically advanced sports cars and luxury vehicles.

E Type Evolution:

The E-Type, launched in 1961, evolved through Series 1, 1.5, 2, and the final Series 3. The Series 3 (1971-1974) introduced the V12 engine, revised styling (most notably the grille), and improved braking and handling.

Production Years:

1971-1974

Production Total Series3 Ots:

Approx. 1,527 Open Two Seaters

Manufacturing Location:

Coventry, England

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Design Acclaim:

Consistently ranked as one of the most beautiful cars ever made by numerous automotive publications and polls. Enzo Ferrari famously called it 'the most beautiful car ever made'.

Performance Ratings:

Praised for its exceptional performance, especially the V12's smooth power delivery and the car's handling characteristics, for its era.

Historical Significance:

Recognized as a landmark in automotive design and engineering, contributing to its status as a highly desirable collector's item and eligible for numerous classic car events and rallies.