Market Position:
The Jaguar E-Type Series III V12 was the pinnacle of the E-Type lineage, representing the ultimate expression of British sports car design and performance in its era. It targeted the luxury grand touring market and enthusiasts seeking a powerful, stylish, and refined motoring experience.
Key Competitors:
Ferrari Daytona, Aston Martin V8 Vantage, Lamborghini Miura, Chevrolet Corvette Stingray (C3).
V12 Engine:
Introduction of Jaguar's renowned 5.3-liter V12 engine, offering smooth power delivery and a distinctive exhaust note.
Styling:
Evolution of the iconic E-Type styling, featuring a longer wheelbase, flared wheel arches, and the distinctive V12 grille.
Handling:
Independent suspension on all wheels, rack-and-pinion steering, and disc brakes on all four wheels contributed to excellent handling for its size and power.
Manual Value:
Provides essential, factory-level information for maintaining and repairing a highly sought-after classic automobile, preserving its value and drivability.
Covered Models:
All Jaguar Series III V12 E-Type models, including all engine variants, trim levels, and transmission types.
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (Typical factory service manuals for this era are 500+ pages, covering all aspects in detail. Specific page count not provided, but implied to be comprehensive.)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual / Workshop Manual
Engine:
V12 Engine (4.2L & 5.3L variants), fuel injection system (Lucas/Jaguar), ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system.
Transmission:
Manual (Moss) and Automatic (TorqueFlite) transmissions, including overhaul, adjustment, and troubleshooting.
Drivetrain:
Clutch, propeller shaft, differential, rear axle assembly, drive shafts.
Suspension:
Front independent suspension (torsion bar), rear independent suspension (trailing arm), shock absorbers, springs, anti-roll bars, steering geometry.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes (Girling or Dunlop systems), hydraulic circuits, brake booster, parking brake.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, starting system, charging system (alternator), instrumentation, ignition system components, fuse box layout, accessory circuits.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, chassis lubrication points, door mechanisms, glass, interior trim, seats, convertible top mechanism.
Heating And Ventilation:
HVAC system operation, blower motor, ducting, temperature control.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication), fluid level checks, tune-up procedures, brake adjustments, ignition timing adjustments.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults across all vehicle systems, diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting.
Repair And Rebuild:
Complete overhaul procedures for engine, transmission, differential, suspension components, brake system components, and steering system. Bodywork repairs and adjustments.
Disassembly And Assembly:
Step-by-step instructions for the complete disassembly and reassembly of major vehicle components.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid checks and adjustments to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical schematics. Suitable for professional mechanics and highly experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Print Quality:
High-quality digital reproduction of original factory documentation, featuring clear text and high-resolution diagrams/images.
Binding Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Searchability:
Likely OCR-enhanced PDF for text searchability, enabling quick access to specific information.
Printability:
Printable without restriction.
Engine Type:
Jaguar V12, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft per bank)
Displacement:
5.3 Liters (5343 cc / 326 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
87.0 mm x 73.5 mm (approx.)
Compression Ratio:
8.75:1 or 9.0:1 (depending on market and specific engine variant)
Horsepower:
244 bhp (DIN) @ 5500 rpm (approx. for European spec); 254 bhp (SAE) @ 5500 rpm (approx. for US spec)
Torque:
304 lb-ft (DIN) @ 3500 rpm (approx. for European spec); 305 lb-ft (SAE) @ 3500 rpm (approx. for US spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Lucas Constant Injection System (CIS) - typically two Stromberg 1.75" CD-2 carburetors on earlier Series III, transitioning to Lucas fuel injection on later models.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (when introduced), premium octane required.
Ignition Type:
Distributor-based, coil ignition (Lucas).
Cooling Type:
Pressurized water-cooled system with engine-driven fan and radiator.
Standard Transmission:
4-speed manual (Moss gearbox - rare for Series III V12, more common on earlier models, but some may exist).
Optional Transmission:
3-speed automatic (Chrysler TorqueFlite A727/A904)
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, hydraulically operated (for manual transmission).
Automatic Transmission Details:
Torque converter automatic, known for its robustness and smooth shifting.
Wheelbase:
105 inches (2667 mm) for 2+2; 96 inches (2438 mm) for Roadster/OTS
Overall Length:
180.5 inches (4585 mm) for 2+2; 166.5 inches (4229 mm) for Roadster/OTS
Overall Width:
66 inches (1676 mm)
Overall Height:
49.75 inches (1264 mm) for 2+2; 48 inches (1219 mm) for Roadster/OTS
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,500 - 3,800 lbs (1588 - 1724 kg) depending on body style and transmission.
Safety Ratings:
Not applicable for the era. Modern crash testing standards were not in place.
Braking System:
Four-wheel disc brakes (Girling or Dunlop), ventilated front discs, often with servo assistance.
Steering System:
Power-assisted rack and pinion steering.
Seat Belts:
Standard lap and sash seat belts for front occupants.
Construction:
Body-on-frame construction with integrated safety cage elements.
Radio:
Typically an AM/FM radio with an optional 8-track player or later cassette player. Features vary by original market specification.
Power Steering:
Standard power-assisted rack and pinion steering system.
Air Conditioning:
Optional, dealer-installed or factory-fitted AC system. Service and recharge procedures are detailed.
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No modern electronic connectivity features).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for specific intervals and conditions.
Grease Points:
Regular lubrication of suspension, steering, and driveshaft U-joints as per manual schedule (typically every 1,000-3,000 miles).
Tune Up Frequency:
Recommended annually or every 6,000 miles, including spark plug replacement, ignition timing, carburetor/injection adjustments.
Engine Oil:
SAE 20W50 API CD or SF (check manual for exact specification for engine condition and climate). Capacity: approx. 10-12 U.S. pints (5.2-5.7 Liters) with filter.
Coolant:
50/50 mix of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water. Capacity: approx. 24-26 U.S. pints (11.4-12.3 Liters).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (consult manual for preference). Ensure compatibility with original system seals.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Dexron III / Mercon equivalent. Capacity: approx. 10-12 U.S. pints (4.7-5.7 Liters) for TorqueFlite.
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 90 or 80W-90 hypoid gear oil. Capacity: approx. 3.5 U.S. pints (1.6 Liters).
Cooling System:
Potential for overheating due to radiator capacity or fan efficiency. Regular flushing and inspection of hoses are vital.
Carburator Fuel Injection:
Tuning and synchronization of carburetors/injection systems can be complex. Vacuum leaks and fuel system maintenance are critical.
Rust Corrosion:
Common in older British cars. Check sills, wheel arches, floor pans, and chassis outriggers. Proper underbody protection is essential.
Electrical System:
Age-related degradation of wiring insulation, connections, and relays. Wiring diagrams are crucial for troubleshooting.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear in rubber bushings can lead to poor handling and ride quality. Replacement is a common maintenance item.
Brand Heritage:
Jaguar Cars, a British manufacturer renowned for its luxury sports cars, racing pedigree, and elegant design. Founded by Sir William Lyons.
E Type Generations:
The Series III represents the final evolution of the E-Type, launched in 1971. It succeeded the Series II and was characterized by the adoption of the V12 engine and a revised chassis.
Production Years:
1971-1974
Production Numbers:
Approximately 1,524 V12 E-Type Series III 2+2 Coupes and 2,048 V12 E-Type Series III Roadsters/Convertibles were produced.
Manufacturing Location:
Coventry, England
🏆 Professional Vehicle Manual Information
Comprehensive technical documentation for maintenance, repair, and operation