1974 Jaguar E-Type S3 OTS restoration by P&K Thornton
A complete nut & bolt restoration over 4 years by the P&K Thornton team, including bodywork stripped to bare metal, engine and gearbox rebuilt, IRS rebuilt, new wiring loom fitted, items re chromed, new upholstery and hood.
By the time this Series 3 left the Browns Lane factory, on the 24th of April 1974, the iconic E-Type had already achieved international cult status. This numbers matching manual gearbox V12 is one of the last ones ever made, the culmination of a project that saw many refinements, since its debut at the 1961 Geneva Motor Show. The Series 3 is notable for its improved driveability, with the smooth, 5.3l V12 engine transforming the character of the car, in no small part helped by the wider tires and the longer wheelbase, that also allowed for more interior room.
As stated by its Heritage Certificate, this car was first registered on the 9th of September 1974, the original number plate being XYU 40N. This later changed for a private plate, before acquiring the current KLM 215N. Prior to the sale, the car will once again be fitted with an historic black number plate, more in tune with its classic car status.
This red convertible has just emerged from a no expenses spared restoration, aiming to make it one of the most enjoyable E-Types on the road today. The body was stripped to bare metal and resprayed in the factory Carmen red, while all chromed items were redone to concourse quality. To complete the look, the car was fitted with a new complete interior trim and a period correct hood. The engine was fully rebuilt by reputable engine specialist, who is also providing extensive warranty on the work. The gearbox and rear axle were stripped and rebuilt, while the entire suspension was refreshed. With the utmost reliability in mind, a new wiring loom was fitted, dials were rebuilt and new switches fitted while, on the entertainment side, a new stainless steel exhaust was fitted that allows the engine to sing to a refined tune. We made sure the car is professionally road tested to achieve its full potential. Last, but not least, the car passed MOT with flying colours and is currently professionally detailed and ceramic coated.
