The Jaguar E-Type Series 3 arrived in 1971 featuring a new 5.3 litre twelve-cylinder Jaguar V12 engine fitted with four Zenith Stromberg carburettors. The transmission featured a four-speed manual while an optional three-speed automatic was available on the convertible. The heavier V12 engine realized a significant weight increase necessitating the inclusion of power steering as a standard feature as well as uprated brakes with ventilated discs. 

The Series 3 was only available as a convertible and 2+2 coupé. The long-wheelbase was standardized resulting in the convertible also adopting the 2+2 coupé's floorpan with the longer wheelbase while the two-seater Fixed Head Coupé was discontinued. The car became squatter featuring a wider track. Steel wheels and chrome hubcaps were standard features while wire wheels were now an optional extra.

The E-Type Series 3 is easily recognizable by its large cross-slated front grille, flared wheel arches and the V12 badge on the rear. It also boasted a more luxurious interior and heavily padded seats. US models had indicator repeaters on the front wings and large projecting rubber bumper overriders to meet local 5 mph (8 km/h) impact regulations. Production for the E-Type ended in February 1975 with a total of 72,233 cars sold. It was replaced by the Jaguar XJS.