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The Jaguar E-Type followed the same evolutionary path as a host of other sports cars, from the big Healey to the Datsun/Nissan Z. What started out as a fairly Spartan sports car gradually grew into a more luxurious - but more refined - grand touring machine. New emissions and safety laws certainly played a part, but the final iteration of the E-Type had lost the sporting feel of the earlier cars.
On the other hand, there's a great deal to like about the Series III: in addition to hundreds of detail refinements, there is the roomy and comfortable cockpit, excellent air conditioning, modern brakes and, of course, that glorious, all-alloy V-12 engine.
When we planned the modifications to the silver E-Type roadster you see here, it was to capitalize on the Series III's strengths but make a shift back toward the more sporting character of the Series I cars - and then some. The final verdict will have to wait until the car is finished, but with the following modifications, and an estimated 375 horsepower on tap, we feel success is all but inevitable.
Custom electronic fuel injection
Forged high-compression pistons
High performance cams and cylinder heads
Alloy flywheel
Stainless steel headers
Custom ignition system
Big bore exhaust
Five-speed gearbox
Limited slip differential with custom gearing and finned rear cover
Heavy duty anti-sway bars
GAZ adjustable shocks
Polyurethane suspension bushings
Heavy duty torsion bars
Adjustable-boost power steering system
Alloy radiator
Oil cooler
Modern, high-efficiency A/C compressor
Wilwood racing calipers
Braided stainless steel brake hoses
E-Type "Light Weight" Dunlop-style wheels
225/60 Michelin Pilot tires
Three-eared knock-offs
Racing-style seat belts
Three-spoke steering wheel
In addition to the above modifications, this car received a complete, bare-metal restoration and new black leather interior and black Stayfast top. All mechanical and electrical systems, as well as components, are either rebuilt or replaced.
Watch our website, www.xks.com, for project updates.
