Jaguar : XJ6 / XJ12
Model Introduction
The original Jaguar XJ6, launched in 1968, was Sir William Lyons’ final masterpiece - a car intended to replace the entire Jaguar saloon range with one supremely elegant design. Styled in-house under Lyons’ close direction, it combined classic proportions with a low beltline and long, flowing curves that echoed the E-Type's grace. Beneath the skin, it featured independent rear suspension, power-assisted disc brakes all-round, and Jaguar’s silken XK straight-six in 2.8 or 4.2-litre form. The flagship Daimler versions and later 5.3-litre V12-powered XJ12 models added even more refinement. Series 2 cars arrived in 1973 with minor styling and interior updates, followed by the Series 3 in 1979, subtly reworked by Pininfarina with a longer roofline, slimmer bumpers, and improved build. Across all versions, the XJ set new standards for comfort, ride quality, and understated luxury—widely regarded as one of the finest saloons of its time.
Magazine Articles
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So subtle, so English - Jaguar's XJ6
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The guy in the big white Merc
An encounter with the CAR of the Year in north-western France
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Vintage '69
Full bodied.. Matures well...
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Will the real XJ12 please stand up?
Jaguar XJ12 and De Tomaso Deauville
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It's all happening
PD recently got a sneak pre-view of the new two door Jaguar, the XJC.
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"The Car is outside Sir"
Jaguar XJ12
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The Top Ten
Over £10000 : Daimler Vanden Plas
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The best gets better
Mel Nichols on the Series Three Jaguar XJ : After 11 years, still the saloon to beat
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Battle Royal
Mercedes Benz 500SE v Jaguar XJ5.3
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Newcomers : Giant Test
BMW 735IA v Mercedes Benz 500SEL v Daimler Double Six Vanden Plas
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Giant Test
Saab 9000CD v Jaguar XJ3.4 v Mercedes Benz 280SE
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Catastrophe...
A 1976-77 foray by racing Jaguar XJCs, badged as "Leylands", was a disaster
