Marque: Jaguar - Company History & Models - Cars By Brand
Jaguar
Jaguar celebrates its 75th anniversary in foreign hands but, ironically, in a healthier shape than many times during its historic past. William Lyons (later, Sir William), working with William Walmsley, set up the Swallow firm for producing quality, good value motorcycle sidecars in 1922 and the business prospered. Their first involvement with cars came in 1927, when the concern started producing…
Jaguar XJ140
Fast Facts
- Produced:
1986-1994 - Bodywork:
Four-door saloon (inc LWB derivatives) - Engine:
Twin overhead camshaft in-line six-cylinder 2919cc 165bhp; 3239cc 200bhp; 3590cc 221bhp; 3980cc 235bhp V12: Overhead camshaft V12 5994cc 318bhp - 0-60 mph:
2.9: 10 sec; 4.0 8.5 secs - Top Speed:
120 -140mph - MPG:
20-37
PAST: When introduced in 1986, the new ‘XJ40’ saloons were hailed as worthy replacements to the previous strain of XJs. AJ6 straight six replaced the XK (used in Jaguars since 1948). The new motor – refined, powerful and economical – was offered in capacities from 2.9 – 4.0 litres. From 1993, a new 6.0-litre V12 XJ replaced previous S3.
PRESENT: Early XJ40s can be bought very cheaply, and yet are already regarded as good classics in their own right, especially XJR models. They are dynamically great if you get a good well set up one; cheap, rough examples will prove stressful and expensive in the long run and the sluggish 2.9 can suffer from head gasket woes.
FUTURE: Currently these are bangers which are given away (so good for cheap source of spares) but good ones will rise to the top and become collectable, especially the TWR-tuned examples. It’s a neo classic that’s best to buy on condition rather than price.
Jaguar E-Type
RATING:
PRICE: £10,000-£45,000+
View full review View full review View full review View full review View full review View full review View full reviewFast Facts
- Produced:
1961-75 - Bodywork:
Two-door fixedhead/open roadster - Engine:
Twin overhead camshaft, in-line six-cylinder 3781cc 265bhp; 4235cc 265bhp Overhead camshaft V12 5343cc 272bhp - 0-60 mph:
3.8 7sec 4.2 7+sec; V12 6.4sec - Top Speed:
3.8 150mph; 4.2 145+mph V12 150mph - MPG:
3.8/4.2 15-20
PAST: Introduced in 1961 and an icon ever since, the newcomer (fixed-head or roadster) was powered by the 3.8-litre XK lump, and featured all round independent suspension. Engine capacity was increased to a lustier if lazier 4.2-litres from late ‘64. Long wheelbase ‘two plus two’ versions for ‘66 gave it family appeal, but ‘Series 1 1/2’ models for 1967, with ‘uncowled’ headlamps, spoiled the looks. Revised Series 2 cars arrived for 1969 with better brakes. A new, long wheelbase only Series 3 was introduced in 1971, powered by alloy, 5.3-litre V12.
PRESENT: A true classic of its time, the E-type is still regarded as one of the best ever. Early six-cylinder cars are loved for their straightforward effectiveness, while the later V12s are favoured for their smooth performance. Handling soft on all but many mods are widely available.
FUTURE: There may never be another car with as much appeal as the E-type. Prices are high and set to rise.
Jaguar Mark VII
RATING:
PRICE: £4000-£15,000+
Fast Facts
- Produced:
1951-1954 - Bodywork:
Four-door saloon - Engine:
Twin overhead camshaft in-line six-cylinder 3442cc160bhp; (Mark VIIM 190bhp) - 0-60 mph:
14sec; (Mark VIIM 11.5sec) - Top Speed:
100+mph; (Mark VIIM 105+mph) - MPG:
12-18
PAST: The Mark VII saloon replaced the previous Mark V (there was no Mark VI), making its debut in October 1950. This large saloon was opulent and fast; ideal for high speed, high style motoring. The Mark VII featured a divided windscreen and ‘spats’ partially covering the rear wheels. Under the bonnet was the trusty XK120 engine. The updated, more powerful Mark VIIM arrived in 1954.
PRESENT: Still well-respected for their long haul fast cruising abilities and guaranteed to draw attention wherever they go, these big cats drive quite well. Mpg is dire but the Jag is a genuine cut-price Silver Ghost that matches the Crewe car for luxury and good taste.
FUTURE: The quality of these regal saloons will always shine through. These cars are already scarce and prices will almost certainly rise – if not jump – from current lowly levels. The downside of still cheap prices are low rent repair and restorations, so beware of bodges.
Jaguar Mark VIII
RATING:
PRICE: £4000+-£13,000+
Fast Facts
- Produced:
1956-1958 - Bodywork:
Four-door saloon - Engine:
Twin overhead camshaft in-line six-cylinder 3442cc 190bhp - 0-60 mph:
11.5sec - Top Speed:
107mph - MPG:
12-18
PAST: Based on the VIIM saloon, and replacing this model in October 1956, the new Mark VIII featured a single piece windscreen, two-tone paint and a new grille, plus an even more luxurious, craftsman-built cabin. The 3.4-litre XK had been ramped up too, with better breathing. There were few saloons of the 1950s that could even come close to the overall excellence of the package.
PRESENT: The Mark VIII is an ideal large classic sports saloon, with huge on-road presence and the ability to rapidly pack luxury miles into a day’s quality classic touring – if you can afford the fuel! Automatics popular and their lazy nature suits this two-tonner of a saloon rather well although a manual with overdrive has nicer high speed gearing and better fuel returns.
FUTURE: These big cats serve as a sharp reminder of just what Jaguar could do so well. Always cheap to buy if not run, plus restos cost as much as a Mk2, while parts and things aren’t as plentiful. Well worth a punt we say!
Jaguar Mark XI
RATING:
PRICE: £4000+-£14,000+
Fast Facts
- Produced:
1958-1961 - Bodywork:
Four-door saloon - Engine:
Twin overhead camshaft in-line six-cylinder 3781cc 220bhp - 0-60 mph:
11sec - Top Speed:
114mph - MPG:
12-18
PAST: Faster than a Mark VIII the Mark IX saloon of 1958 was fitted with the 220bhp 3.8-litre XK unit, and was equipped with Dunlop disc brakes all round plus power-assisted steering. Customers could specify automatic transmission, or, in conjunction with a manual gearbox, overdrive. Newcomer was made for long-distance travel on the new British motorways that were starting to appear but had Rolls’ card marked for luxury and comfort.
PRESENT: The fastest of all the giant Jags, Mark Ixs remain fine tourers with an excellent ride and decent big car handling. They represent startling value for money and are classier than a Silver Shadow or a big MK10. Economy is dire – but if only used occasionally…
FUTURE: The style of the Mark IXs will attract buyers for decades to come. Sadly, restoration costs are almost certain outweigh this car’s values so buy the best you can in the first place.
Jaguar XJS
Fast Facts
- Produced:
1975-96 - Engine:
3.6/4.0/5.3/6.0 - 0-60 mph:
7.3sec - Top Speed:
152mph - Power:
228/223/295/333bhp
If the XJS was more a car for the millionaire’s right hand man than the millionaire himself, the upshot is that today these Jags can be bought simply by leaving the change jar unemptied for a couple of years. The replacement for the E-Type is a foolhardy buy at £500, but move up to £3000 and you’ll find a car worth keeping, if only to watch the inevitable price rise after years in the doldrums. The two-plus-two tourer was born in 1975, but there are very few of these early 5.3 V12 cars still alive. Move into the 80s and the far less thirsty 3.6-litre six-cylinder cars are easier to like and look after, and there’s not a huge dip in performance either. At £3000, problems like rotting crossmembers will fade as you should set your sights on the 1991 facelift with the new 4.0-litre engine and extras such as driver’s airbag. Th cabriolet with its fiddly targa top doesn’t command that much more than the coupe, but it’s the full convertible from 1988 that will work hardest for you as you attempt to blag your way into the posh car park at the swanky Henley Regatta. Electric power lets the sunshine in a mere 12secs after pushing the button, seducing anyone not already impressed with the opulent interior, supple ride and effortless acceleration.
Jaguar XJ6/XJ12
Fast Facts
- Produced:
1968-1986 - Bodywork:
Four-door saloon two-door fixedhead coupé - Engine:
XJ6: Twin overhead camshaft in-line six-cylinder 2.8 2792cc 140bhp; 3.4 3442cc 161bhp; 4.2 4235cc 173bhp; XJ12 Overhead camshaft V12 5343cc 265bhp (later examples 299bhp - 0-60 mph:
2.8: 11sec; 3.4: 10.5+sec; 4.2 8.5+sec; XJ12 7.5sec - Top Speed:
117-145mph - MPG:
‘Sixes’ 15-24; XJ12 Pre-HE versions 10-18; HE models 12-20
PAST: Arriving in 1968, the new XJ6 saloon replaced the MK2 and S-Type in one swoop using new 2.8-litre capacity XK alongside established 4.2; E-type IRS. . The XJ12, powered by Jaguar’s superb 5.3-litre V12 , made its debut in 1972 along with LWB versions. Revised Series 2 Xjs arrived in 1973 with better heater and smarter look. Sleek two-door coupés were introduced for 1974. Updated ‘Series 3’ sharper styled Xjs were unveiled in 1979 with fuel injection and a five-speed gearbox.
PRESENT: These classic cats remain one of the most refined, rapid, comfy saloons ever. S2 cars are least liked (when the BL rot started to set in) and usually the cheapest. S3s are best of the lot.
FUTURE: Earliest cars becoming scarcer and most sought-after, yet prices still don’t reflect this. Rare Coupé is a bit hit and miss, sometimes they trail S2s.
Jaguar XK 120
Fast Facts
- Produced:
1948-1954 - Bodywork:
Two-seater roadster fixedhead coupé drophead coupé - Engine:
Twin overhead camshaft in-line six-cylinder 3442cc 150bhp - 0-60 mph:
10sec - Top Speed:
125mph - MPG:
17-22
PAST: When introduced in 1948, the XK 120 caused a sensation, due to its low-slung looks, top performance (thanks to the new, twin overhead cam, 3.4-litre XK engine), and the excellent value it represented. It was highly successful in motorsport as well, including the Monte Carlo Rally and the Le Mans 24 Hour race. Fixedhead versions were offered from 1951, Drophead Coupés from 1953 with improvements along the way.
PRESENT: The pure lines of the XK 120 still look great over 60 years after the car surfaced. However, many prefer the later XK140/XK150 models, for their superior dynamic qualities and in particular, better brakes. Despite the hailed moniker, XK120s never quite made 120mph…
FUTURE: Interest will continue to soar, as will prices. The reason? There are few sports cars of any era that were so attractive and advanced for their time.
Jaguar S-Type & 420
Fast Facts
- Produced:
1963-1968 - Bodywork:
Four-door saloon - Engine:
Twin overhead camshaft in-line six-cylinder 3442cc 210bhp; 3781cc 220bhp; 4235cc (420) 245bhp - 0-60 mph:
3.4 11+sec; 3.8 10sec; 420 9.5+sec - Top Speed:
4 110+ mph; 3.8/ 420 120+mph - MPG:
15-23
PAST: The S-Type of ‘63 was developed from the 3.4 and 3.8 Mk2, incorporating a MK X-style tail together with its fully independent rear end for more boot space, a far superior ride and much more secure handling. In 1966 the luxurious and more powerful 420 arrived, powered by the lazier, torquier 4.2-litre engine with a MK X-style frontal style and dashboard.
PRESENT: Arguably not as pretty and certainly not as sporty as the Mk2 but are highly capable saloons all the same. Handling and ride is much better however although, thanks to their heavier body, performance and economy isn’t quite as good.
FUTURE: It seems that these models will never be as sought-after as the Mk2 and so will probably always remain relative bargains in terms of asking prices, especially the 420. Parts and back up isn’t as strong as the Mk2 and for some reason the S-Type is still viewed as the poor relation of the Mk2 family.
Jaguar XJ-S
Fast Facts
- Produced:
1975-1994 - Bodywork:
Two-door fixedhead coupé, cabriolet, convertible - Engine:
V12: Overhead camshaft V12 5343cc 299bhp; 3.6: Twin overhead camshaft in-line six-cylinder 3590cc 225bhp; 3980cc 235bhp - 0-60 mph:
V12 Manual 6.9sec (HE 6.5sec) automatic 7.5sec; 3.6 Manual 7.5sec automatic 7.8sec - Top Speed:
Manual 150+mph (HE,155mph) automatic 140+mph; 3.6 Manual 140+mph automatic 135mph - MPG:
V12 12-18 (HE 14-21);‘Sixes’ 20-25
PAST: Launched in 1975 on a cut down XJ6 platform with V12 power, a modified ‘high efficiency’ (HE) version greatly improving mpg arrived in 1981. From a new, 3.6- litre twin cam, fuel-injected ‘six’ surfaced. ‘Two plus two’ fixed-head and oddly-styled two-seater cabriolet versions were offered (SC). The latter was discontinued in 1987 (3.6) and 1988 (V12) replaced by proper convertibles (XJ-S V12 in 1988). V12 and 3.6 discontinued in 1991 replaced by revamped 4.0-litre and V12 versions.
PRESENT: The XJS was always a great GT and much more accomplished than the E-type in many ways. Today few moderns can beat this cultured cat, which just got better and better over the years, especially build and reliability.
FUTURE: The XJS is coming of age. From banger money they are at last starting to fetch decent money too – the trouble is that there are many bodged cars around due to the low values sticking for so long – plus rot like murder!
Jaguar XK 140
Fast Facts
- Produced:
1954-1957 - Bodywork:
Two-seater roadster fixed-head coupé drophead coupé - Engine:
Twin overhead camshaft in-line six-cylinder 3442cc 190bhp (or 210bhp) - 0-60 mph:
9sec - Top Speed:
129mph - MPG:
17-22
PAST: Representing an evolution of the XK120 on which it was based, the XK140 (there was no XK130) arrived in October 1954 featuring rack and pinion steering, improved brakes and bigger bumpers. With the exception of the Roadster, XK 140s provided acceptable ‘two plus two’ seating. Still rewarding buyers with remarkable performance levels per pound, these cars were well loved by enthusiasts who don’t want to go the E-type route.
PRESENT: XK 140 is generally regarded as being easier and yet more satisfying to drive than the earlier XK 120. It is still looked upon as one of the most desirable classic Jags although the larger bumpers and grille treatmant sadly spoils those original lovely lines.
FUTURE: Originality is vital (and hard to detect sometimes) and the SE cars will always command a premium. A better car than the XK120 in many ways
Jaguar XK 150
Fast Facts
- Produced:
1957-1961 - Bodywork:
2+2 fixedhead coupe and two-seater drophead coupe - Engine:
Twin overhead camshaft in-line six-cylinder 3442cc 210bhp; 3781cc 220bhp (150S 3781cc 265bhp - 0-60 mph:
23 sec - Top Speed:
130+mph (150S, 135+mph) - MPG:
17-22
PAST: With an even larger cockpit than the 140, the new XK 150 of 1957 was identifiable by its wider front grille and single piece windscreen treatment. It ran on servo’d, Dunlop disc brakes (front and rear), and the car felt more modern than earlier XKs, especially in new 3.8-litre 210bhp SE tune. The XK 150 was replaced by the E-type in 1961 but ran in tandem for a short while.
PRESENT: Regarded by many as the ultimate XK variant, the XK150 provides greater comfort and better braking than previous XKs while some view a 3.8 as good as the E-type, except in handling. The jury’s still out on whether the styling is better than earlier XKs however…
FUTURE: As time passes, enthusiasts are expecting better dynamic qualities from their classic cars, so it is expected that demand for the superior XK 150 will rise over other XKs. But restorations are hugely costly on any model and yesteryear bodges used to be rife.
Jaguar XKSS
Fast Facts
- Produced:
1956-57 - Bodywork:
Two-seater open sports - Engine:
Twin overhead camshaft in-line six-cylinder 3442cc 250bhp - 0-60 mph:
5+sec - Top Speed:
145+mph - MPG:
15-20+
PAST: Road-going version of the D Type, which had been an icon on the tracks, the XKSS made worthy use of spare D-Type bodies… Under the bonnet was a 250bhp tune 3.4-litre XK lump good for a 0-60 sprint in just over five seconds, and over 145 mph. Only 16 built before a factory fire sadly killed the project in February 1957.
PRESENT: Most are unlikely ever to get their hands on a real XKSS; a shame as this is a very special Jaguar – and one wonders what would have happened if there had not been that fire… However, many replicas have been produced and good ones are rightly sought after.
FUTURE: Future generations will marvel at how a car from the mid-1950s could look so sexy, and provide such dazzling performance. In many ways it even eclipses the E-type which evolved. Due to their ultra rare nature, prices are hard to perdict – but if have to ask then you simply can’t afford one!
Jaguar MK X/420G
RATING:
PRICE: £2000+-9000+
Fast Facts
- Produced:
1961-1970 - Bodywork:
Four-door saloon and limousine (420G) - Engine:
Overhead camshaft in-line six-cylinder 3781cc 250bhp; 4235cc 265bhp - 0-60 mph:
3.8 12sec; 4.2 10 sec - Top Speed:
3.8 120mph; 4.2 120+mph - MPG:
14-20
PAST: Designed for the US market the Mark X (10) is simply huge in almost all respects. Powering this ‘61 leviathan was the 3.8-litre XK unit although for 1965 the new lustier and better suited 4.2 engine was used. Power steering, all-independent suspension and Dunlop disc brakes (front and rear) fitted from the outset. The 420G, (from October 1966), was based on the older MKX, but featured a vertical, dividing bar in the grille, plus bodywork changes. Discontinued in 1970.
PRESENT: These fast fat cats in many ways are equal to the XJ6 in comfort and refinement and represent a great deal of classic Jag for your money. You will need a very large garage and economy from the hard worked XK engines is simply dire! But as weekend treat…
FUTURE: An acquired taste, prices are starting to break the five figure mark but this still makes superb value compared to a MK2 or XJ6. Just try one!
Jaguar MK1
Fast Facts
- Produced:
2.4: 1955-59; 3.4: 1957-59 - Bodywork:
Four-door saloon - Engine:
Twin overhead camshaft in-line six-cylinder 2483cc 112bhp; 3442cc 210bhp - 0-60 mph:
2.4 15.5+sec; 3.4 9+sec - Top Speed:
2.4 100+mph; 3.4 120+mph - MPG:
2.4 20-25; 3.4 15-20+
PAST: This model represented the start of a new tradition for Jaguar, a compact, unitary construction four-door saloon, introduced at the 1955 Motor Show and powered by a new 2.4-litre XK engine. A faster version arrived in 1957 with XK140 power to deliver storming pace for its day. The 3.4-litre boasted a larger grille, and lacked the ‘full’ wheel spats of the 2.4 and most had disc brakes (thankfully) for better stopping.
PRESENT: Not as secure as later Mk2s, thanks to narrower rear track promoting tail happy handling while the cabin is less airy. Most 2.4s were SE spec; rare base model lacked rev counter rarely seen. Sluggish and drum brakes tolerable; 3.4 is a much nicer prospect. Rarity always
creates interest.
FUTURE: Hawthorn effect has seen prices rocket of late and they now match – and even beat – Mk2, if its a 3.4 MoD. Lesser 2.4s lag in values significantly.
Jaguar MK2
RATING:
PRICE: £4000-£60,000+
View full review View full review View full review View full reviewFast Facts
- Produced:
1959-1969 - Bodywork:
Four-door saloon - Engine:
Twin overhead camshaft in-line six-cylinder 2483cc 120bhp; 3442cc 210bhp; 3781cc 220bhp - 0-60 mph:
2.4 17sec (240) 13 sec; 3.4 11 sec (340) 10 sec; 3.8 8.5sec - Top Speed:
2.4 100+mph; 3.4 120mph; 3.8 125mph - MPG:
2.4 20-25+; 3.4/3.8 15-23
PAST: A brilliant update on the Mk1, the Mk2 was wider, had a larger glass area, and handled far more securely.The same engine line up was offered topped by the 220bhp 3.8 unit. They also featured Dunlop disc brakes and a wider track to tame the tail. Gradually downgraded in the mid 1960s, it culminated in the run out 240 and 340 models of 1967 with their plastic trim!
PRESENT: Always in demand for their blend of sporting good looks, practicality and performance – especially from the 3.4 and 3.8 litre versions – although handling feels antiquated (easy to mod though). Later 240/340s have more power but less luxury and so are much underrated models and values reflect this.
FUTURE: Prices are ever rising, particularly for pristine 3.8s with overdrive although there is a trend towards Mk1s right now. Best value for money are the 240/340s (and the Daimler V8 for that matter).
Jaguar 2.4/3.4 Litre Saloons
RATING:
PRICE: 2.4: Rough £2000+ Good £5000 A1 £8000 3.4: Rough £2500+ Good £6000+ A1 £10,000
Fast Facts
- Produced:
2.4: 1955-59; 3.4: 1957-59 - Bodywork:
Four-door saloon - Engine:
Twin overhead camshaft in-line six-cylinder 2483cc 112bhp; 3442cc 210bhp - 0-60 mph:
2.4 15.5+sec; 3.4 9+sec - Top Speed:
2.4 100+mph; 3.4 120+mph - MPG:
2.4 20-25 mpg;3.4 15-20+mpg
Jaguar’s new compact fourdoor saloon of the 1950s introduced in 1955 represented the start of a new tradition for the company. Under the bonnet was a 2.4-litre version of the XK engine, providing smooth if sedate performance, unitary construction, coil spring and wishbone type front suspension and cantilever springs at the rear. The track’s width here was noticeably narrower than that at the front (which made for let’s say ‘interesting’ roadholding). Interiors were of a high order, with leather upholstery, plus a forest load of walnut-finished dash and door cappings. A more potent 3.4 arrived in 1957 which really sorted the men from the boys! Mk1s remain underrated and good bets over Mk2s.
Jaguar MK IX
RATING:
PRICE: Mark IX: Rough £4000+; Good £9000+ A1 £14,000
Fast Facts
- Produced:
1958-1961 - Bodywork:
Four-door saloon - Engine:
Twin overhead camshaft in-line six-cylinder 3781cc 220bhp - 0-60 mph:
11sec - Top Speed:
114mph - MPG:
12-18mpg
Powered by the rapid 3.8 XK, the new Mark IX saloon replaced the Mark VIII in October 1958. To help slow this faster luxury limo, XK sports Dunlop disc brakes were - thankfully – installed all round. Power steering was welcome step, making driving this veritable tank of a car surprisingly easy. Customers could specify automatic or overdrive. Like their predecessors, the Mark Ixs were and remain fine touring saloons. Built for comfort and speed, these saloons offer a class leading ride, room and beautifully furnished cabins. The Mark IXs were discontinued in 1961, making way for the new, if rather brash, Mark X which surfaced in October that year - and with it a wonderful era of majestic, upper crust Jags finished. Buy now while they are such great value…
Jaguar MK VII Saloon
RATING:
PRICE: Mark VII/M: Rough £4000; Good £8000 A1 £11,000+
Fast Facts
- Produced:
1951-1954 - Bodywork:
Four-door saloon - Engine:
Twin overhead camshaft in-line six-cylinder 3442cc 160bhp (Mark VIIM 190bhp) - 0-60 mph:
14sec (Mark VIIM 11.5sec) - Top Speed:
100+mph (Mark VIIM 105+mph) - MPG:
12-18mpg
There was no Mark VI Jaguar for some strange reason, so the new Mark VII saloon was the replacement for the previous Mark V, and it arrived in October 1950. This ‘poor man’s Rolls was identifiable by divided windscreen and ‘spats’ partially covering the rear wheels - very fashionable at the time. Powering the Mark VII was the fine 3.4-litre XK120 engine. Laycock de Normanville overdrive was offered as an option from 1954 and very popular it became. In October the more powerful Mark VIIM arrived, with minor suspension modifications, flashing indicators, ‘wrap-around’ bumpers, revised lamps (including the front fog lamps) and external horn grilles. UK buyers could opt for autos from late 1955. Today these Jags make exceptional budget buys and good ones are a delight although fuel costs can be - ahem - let’s say rather high!
Jaguar MK VIII
RATING:
PRICE: Mark VIII: Rough £4000+; Good £9000 A1 £13,000
Fast Facts
- Produced:
1956-1958 - Bodywork:
Four-door saloon - Engine:
Twin overhead camshaft in-line six-cylinder 3442cc, 190bhp - 0-60 mph:
11.5sec - Top Speed:
107mph - MPG:
12-18mpg
The revised Mark VIII replaced the VIIM in October 1956, the new car featuring a single piece windscreen, two-tone paintwork (the duo colours being divided by bright trims), and a new grille with a wider chromed surround, plus an even posher interior that was well up to Rolls standards. The venerable XK engine had been revised too (modified head plus twin exhaust pipes to give it useful more pep) although could never be regarded as a fast car with all that weight. A useful feature was a dash mounted switch to hold the automatic ‘box in its ‘intermediate’ ratio, for easier overtaking and hill climbing. Mark VIII looks more modern than its predecessor, largely courtesy of the model’s one piece windscreen. Performance levels are very good for a saloon of the 1950s - the model’s ability to cruise effortlessly for long periods at high speeds is its best quality. And value!
Jaguar XJ-S & XK8
RATING:
PRICE: Fixedhead V12 (HE models can fetch up to 50 per cent more than pre-HE cars) and 3.6: Rough £1000 to £2000 Good £2500 to £4000; A1£4000 to £6000; Open top V12: Rough £4000; Good £7000+ A1 £10,000+ Open top 3.6: Rough £3000; Good £6000 A1 £8000+
View full reviewFast Facts
- Produced:
1975-1991 - Bodywork:
Two-door fixed head; coupé, cabriolet, convertible - Engine:
V12: Overhead camshaft; V12 5343cc 299bhp 3.6: Twin overhead camshaft in-line six-cylinder 3590cc 225bhp; 3980cc 235bhp - 0-60 mph:
V12: Manual 6.9sec (HE 6.5sec); automatic 7.5sec 3.6: Manual 7.5sec automatic 7.8sec - Top Speed:
Manual 150+mph (HE,155mph); automatic 140+mph 3.6: Manual 140+mph automatic 135mph - MPG:
V12: 12-18mpg (HE 14-21mpg); 3.6: 15-20+mpg
Following in the footsteps of the illustrious E-Type, the XJ-S, surfaced in September 1975 featured totally different (strange) styling. Driving the newcomer was Jag’s now proven V12, via automatic transmission (although four-speed manual option was offered from January 1976) but short lived. From 1981, a ‘high efficiency’ (HE) version of the engine was installed which, together with a higher final drive ratio, gained improved fuel consumption (sort of…). The bumpers (incorporating indicators at front and fog lamps at the rear) were restyled at this time, too. From late in 1983 customers could opt for a new, 3.6-litre, fuel-injected version (powered by Jaguar’s all new six-pot AJ6 engine), with a five-speed manual gearbox or three-speed automatic transmission. ‘Two plus two’ fixed head and two-seater cabriolet versions were also offered. The latter were discontinued in 1987 (3.6) and 1988 (V12), as convertible V12s arrived in spring 1988. The V12 and 3.6 models were discontinued in 1991 (with new 4.0 and V12 XJ-S variants replaced them). After a patchy past the XJ-S is finally gaining the recognition it deserves and increasing interest is steadily moving this cultured cat away from banger ranking to classic status. Prices remain highly affordable - but there’s a lot of poor cars out there.
Jaguar XJ40
Fast Facts
- Produced:
1986-1994 - Bodywork:
Four-door saloon - Engine:
Overhead camshaft in-line six-cylinder 2919cc 165bhp; 3239cc 200bhp; 3590cc 221bhp; 3980cc 235bhp; Overhead camshaft V12 5994cc 318bhp - 0-60 mph:
2.9 9.5+sec; 4.0 8+sec - Top Speed:
2.9 120mph; 4.0 140+mph - MPG:
20-35+mpg
On introduction in 1986, the new and (very) long awaited ‘XJ40’ Jaguar saloons were hailed as worthy successors to the long-running XJ. Jaguar’s new AJ6 straight six engine - refined, powerful and relatively light on fuel - replaced the famous old XK unit, from 2.9-litres, to 4.0-litres. From 1993, a new 6.0 V12 XJ was offered, to replace the previous Series 3 XJ12. Four-speed ‘switchable’ automatic transmission was installed in this superb long distance cruiser. Early XJ40s can be bought for pennies and are slowly but steadily being regarded as classics in their own right and are excellent every day classics, too. Having said that, there’s so much rubbish around that you need to buy with extreme care, avoiding neglected examples unless it’s a rare, impressive, TWR sports version.
