Vehicle Description
What more can be said about the iconic Jaguar XKE when Il
Commendatore himself, Enzo Ferrari, allegedly declared Jaguar's
E-Type "the most beautiful car in the world." The designer of this
unforgettable shape, Malcolm Sayer, was one of the first engineers
in the automotive world to utilize and apply aerospace principles
to road car design, to the point where Mr. Sayer ensured he was
referred to as an Aerodynamicist, not a stylist. Throughout its
ten-year production run from 1961-71, the six-cylinder E-Type
evolved gradually to become more of a Grand Tourer than a race-bred
sports car. The new Series III E-Type would be lower, longer, and
wider, with distinctly flared wheel arches. The shorter wheelbase
would be dropped with both the roadster and the 2+2 sharing the
longer chassis. The Fixed Head Coupe 2-seater was not continued
from the Series II. The U.S. market clamored for a V-8 but got even
more when the Jaguar engineers reconfigured a V-12 design that had
originally been intended to power the XJ13 Le Mans racer. Under the
guidance of engineers Harry Mundy and Walter Hassan, single
overhead camshaft heads replaced the more complicated four-cam
heads, and the road-going 5343cc V-12 was born. Outfitted with quad
Stromberg carburetors and electronic ignition, this powerplant
generated nearly 300 horsepower and over 300 ft/lbs. of torque.
U.S. models like this current offering received lower axle ratios
for increased acceleration. Throughout the rev range the torque and
refinement of this drivetrain makes it a perfect luxury cruiser.
But don't be fooled, the Series III out-accelerated any previous
E-Type. This XKE was built in September 1972, and is one of just
5,183 LHD Series III 2+2s produced. It is fitted with the desirable
4-speed manual transmission, factory A/C, and optional chrome
wire-wheels. According to records on file, this E-Type was in White
Plains, NY, during the 1980s, then off to Florida during the 1990s,
and then on to a significant private collection in more recent
years. Refinished during a restoration to the current and
attractive livery of Pale Primrose over biscuit, the exterior
exhibits superb panel fitment, attractive chrome, correct quad
exhaust, and period correct Michelin XWX tires. Paintwork is very
good all around, finished to a high standard and well maintained in
subsequent years, with only light signs of use apparent on close
inspection. The interior is a 1970s time capsule with the British
Leyland period correct radio and factory underdash A/C controls.
The hides are in great condition, displaying an appealing character
from use. Carpets and door panels are tidy and very well presented
in factory-correct materials. The engine bay is just as highly
detailed as the interior, with authentic fittings, finishes, and
hardware throughout. Previous owners were attentive with service,
maintenance, and restoration needs, and a generous stack of
receipts, owner's manual, and a Jaguar Heritage Certificate
accompany the car, along with a factory jack. Along with similar
cars from the era like the Mercedes SL, the Ferrari 308, and
others, the Jaguar XKE Series III has enjoyed a resurgence of
interest from collectors who appreciate their performance,
refinement, and versatility. We rarely encounter Series III 2+2s as
well-presented as this example, and it represents a great
opportunity for an astute buyer to start their journey in the hobby
or add to an established collection. Offers welcome and trades
considered. For additional details please view this listing
directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7428-1972-jaguar-xke-22/