Image of 1971 Jaguar Xke, sourced from bringatrailer.com , Image Link.

1971 Jaguar XKE: A Paragon of British Automotive Excellence

The 1971 Jaguar XKE, also known as the E-Type, is not merely a car; it's a sweeping statement of elegance and innovation that has captivated enthusiasts and collectors alike. Born from the genius of Sir William Lyons and his team at Jaguar Cars in Coventry, England, the XKE was a harmonious blend of beauty, high performance, and competitive pricing that reshaped the sports car landscape. Its unveiling at the 1961 Geneva Motor Show left an indelible mark on the automotive world, with Enzo Ferrari himself calling it "the most beautiful car ever made." By 1971, the XKE had evolved into its Series 3 form, boasting a robust V12 engine that further solidified its legendary status.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1971 Jaguar XKE is an arresting vision of flowing lines and aerodynamic contours. The long, sculpted hood converges into a distinctively aggressive grille, while the flared wheel arches and svelte silhouette exude a sense of motion even at a standstill. Inside, occupants are greeted with a cabin that radiates old-world charm, featuring sumptuous leather seats and polished wood accents. The attention to detail is evident in every stitch and switchgear placement, reflecting Jaguar's commitment to luxury.

Technologically, the Series 3 XKE was ahead of its time with independent rear suspension and power-assisted disc brakes on all four wheels. Color options ranged from the classic British Racing Green to the more vibrant Signal Red, with each hue accentuating the car's curves in its own way. Among body styles, the convertible is particularly iconic, offering an open-air experience that complements the vehicle's grandeur.

Historical Significance

The impact of the 1971 Jaguar XKE on automotive design cannot be overstated. It was not just a car but an emblem of the era's cultural zeitgeist. Its combination of aesthetics and performance set a benchmark that influenced generations of sports cars. The introduction of a V12 engine in a production sports car was a bold move that paid dividends in establishing Jaguar's technical prowess.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its bonnet lay a 5.3-liter V12 engine capable of propelling the XKE to speeds exceeding 140 mph—a remarkable feat for its time. The sprint from 0-60 mph could be achieved in under 7 seconds, placing it firmly in the upper echelons of performance cars. On winding roads or when gliding over imperfections in the tarmac, drivers were rewarded with poised handling and responsive steering. The symphony emitted by its twelve cylinders was both intoxicating and refined—a true auditory delight for any motoring aficionado.

Ownership Experience

The 1971 Jaguar XKE filled various roles from daily transportation to weekend showpiece or even as an occasional track competitor. Maintenance requires dedication as with any classic vehicle; however, its relatively straightforward mechanicals allow for easier upkeep than some contemporaries. Parts availability is generally good due to strong enthusiast support.

Fun Facts

A testament to its allure, several celebrities have been known to own an E-Type including Steve McQueen and Frank Sinatra. While not holding any official speed records, it was among the fastest production cars available at its launch in 1961. Criticisms typically revolve around its complex electrical systems and fuel consumption—minor quibbles against its overall grandeur.

Collector's Information

Today's collector market values a well-preserved or expertly restored 1971 Jaguar XKE highly; prices can range from $70,000 to well over $150,000 depending on provenance and condition. Production numbers for this year were limited as it marked the transition into Series 3 territory—adding to its rarity and desirability among collectors.

Conclusion

The 1971 Jaguar XKE stands as a testament to automotive artistry—a vehicle that transcends mere transportation to become something greater: an icon of design and performance. It remains as desirable today as it was over half a century ago; not just for what it accomplished but for what it represents—the pinnacle of motoring elegance.

1971 Jaguar XKE Front Stabilizer Bar Bushing-BN 102Front Stabilizer Bar Bushing. 1-1/4" high X 1-3/4" wide X 2" long, with 3/4" I.D. Each

1971 Jaguar XKE Roll Bar Bushing. 1/2" high, with 1/2" hole. Each-BN 2Roll Bar Bushing. 1/2" high, with 1/2" hole. Each

1971 Jaguar XKE Bonnet Bumper. Hollow center to snap over stud. 13/16" O-HA 10Bonnet Bumper. Hollow center to snap over stud. 13/16" O.D. X 7/16" high. Each

1971 Jaguar XKE Rear Bumper to Body Seal. 1" wide. Sold by the foot-LP 109-D/FTRear Bumper to Body Seal. 1" wide. Sold by the foot

1971 Jaguar XKE ANTENA BASE PAD, JAGUAR XJ SERIES I & II ALSO E SERIES III-MP 799-NNANTENA BASE PAD, JAGUAR XJ SERIES I & II ALSO E SERIES III

1971 Jaguar XKE Front Lens Seals. Grey sponge with adhesive back-MP 799-VVFront Lens Seals. Grey sponge with adhesive back. Perfect fit. Pair

1971 Jaguar XKE Spark plug wire boot. Exclusive Metro part-RP 1-KSpark plug wire boot. Exclusive Metro part. Fits on the distributor cap end. Note: looks similar to coil boot, but is physically smaller. Replaces OEM# CO 2609. Each.

1971 Jaguar XKE Shift Boot, for V-12 Engines-RP 33-XShift Boot, for V-12 Engines. Made of PVC vinyl like original. Each

1971 Jaguar XKE Spark Plug Wire Holder Insulation. Each-SM 30-JSpark Plug Wire Holder Insulation. Each