JAGUAR XJ6
Lots of cars claim to be the best in their field, but the Jaguar XJ6 really was, so Will Holman reckons that in so many ways a Series 3 makes the perfect classic. £1900 / £8300
Is there anything stopping the Jaguar XJ6 from being the best classic luxury saloon you can buy? Let’s see. Any car chasing this title needs an engine that excites. Well, if the 4.2-litre XK straight-six isn’t a powerplant that gets your attention, you should probably be reading Rockets World magazine instead. Next up, how does it drive? How about better than any other large car from any other manufacturer – ever? That’ll do.
But it can’t all be about the mechanical stuff. If a car is to be crowned king or queen of them all, it needs to look special too. Fortunately the XJ6 has that firmly covered too. With its sleek, flowing silhouette and tapered snout and tail, it makes other large saloons look positively dowdy. Then climb in and you’re in walnut and leather heaven. The Jaguar XJ6, the epitome of British luxury and performance, stands proudly at the top of the tree as far as I’m concerned, and I speak as somebody who once owned a part share in a Rolls Royce Silver Shadow (mine was the part that kept breaking down).
Born in the 1960s, the XJ6 has etched its legacy with its world-class ride and handling, making it a symbol of automotive excellence that continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike. It made its debut in 1968, a creation of Sir William Lyons, the visionary founder of Jaguar Cars. The XJ6 was more than just a new model; it was a statement of Jaguar’s commitment to blending opulence with performance. From the very beginning, the XJ6 was designed to be the quintessential luxury saloon, boasting a sleek and timeless design that transcended the automotive trends of its era.
Under the elegant bonnet of the XJ6 lay that 4.2-litre DOHC XK six-cylinder engine, a powerplant that not only delivered smooth and refined power but also established the car as a true driver’s machine. The engine’s performance was complemented by the XJ6’S independent rear suspension, a technological marvel at the time that set
the XJ6 apart from many of its contemporaries. It also set the stage for the car’s world-class ride and handling because the magic of the Jaguar XJ6 lies in its ability to seamlessly combine comfort and performance. Whether cruising along the open road or navigating routes less travelled, the XJ6 offered a ride that was smooth and refined, providing occupants with a sense of serenity rarely found in other luxury cars of the era.
As well as providing an opulent ride, the combination of precise steering and a welltuned suspension allowed the XJ6 to glide through corners with confidence and grace. The experience behind the wheel was akin to conducting a symphony, where the harmonious blend of power, handling and elegance created a masterpiece of automotive engineering. As the years passed, the Jaguar XJ6 underwent various updates and improvements, each iteration refining the car’s performance and luxury. By the 1980s, the XJ6 had established itself as a benchmark for luxury saloons, and its timeless design remained a symbol of sophistication. The sleek lines, iconic grille and distinctive quad headlights continued to capture the essence of British elegance, ensuring that the XJ6 remained a real head-turner on the streets.
In 1980, the XJ6 received the Series 3 treatment, featuring updates to the exterior design, the interior and, most notably, a revised suspension system.
The improvements made the ride even more refined, and the handling became sharper, solidifying the XJ6’S reputation as a car that could effortlessly balance luxury and performance. For enthusiasts seeking a classic car that embodies the spirit of a bygone era while still delivering a driving experience that stands the test of time, a 1980 Jaguar XJ6 presents a compelling proposition. Firstly, the Series 3 XJ6 represents the pinnacle of Jaguar’s commitment to luxury and performance. The refined styling, advanced suspension, and timeless design make it a standout classic that attracts attention wherever it goes. Moreover, the 1980 XJ6 is a car that not only embraced its heritage, but also showcased the brand’s ability to evolve with the times – electronic fuel injection had by now replaced SU carburettors, giving increased fuel efficiency and longer engine life.
From a collector’s perspective, the 1980 XJ6 is a relatively accessible classic. While some classic cars command astronomical prices, the XJ6 provides an opportunity for enthusiasts to own a piece of automotive history without breaking the bank. Maintaining a 1980 Jaguar XJ6 is also more feasible than some of its exotic counterparts. The availability of spare parts and a community of passionate enthusiasts ensures that these classics can be preserved and enjoyed for generations to come. As indeed they should be.