Jaguar XJ6 2.8
ENGINE 2792cc/6-cyl/DOHC POWER 147bhp@5750rpm TORQUE 182lb ft@3750rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 112mph 0-60MPH 13sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 13-20mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, three-speed auto MoT 12 months from sale ODOMETER 10,384 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
The six-cylinder engine fires on the first turn of the key and idles almost silently. Everything about this Jag is smooth, from the moment the six-cylinder motor purrs into life, through the effortless transition from rest to motion as the automatic gears slide into action, to the floating ride as the car glides down the road. The auto ‘box selects gears perfectly, pulling away easily and changing up and down almost imperceptibly. Acceleration is smooth and rapid – complete with an alluring background growl – combining luxury with a sporting feel as the suspension does a perfect job of providing both a quietly cosseting ride and excellent road holding. The steering is very light, yet also very positive with no play or judder – the car goes exactly where it’s pointed and has a good feel from the road. Strong brakes bring the car to a stop with no pulling.
BODYWORK CHECK
It looks as though the light blue paint has been redone at some point, and has a good finish and shine overall, although the sills have some cracks in the finish – the vendor says that this will be taken care of before the car is sold. There is also a small blister on each of the lower edges of the rear passenger doors. There are no dings or blemishes to the panels and the shut lines are pleasingly even. The chrome is good all around the car, including on the radiator grille, front and rear bumpers and hub caps. The 205/70 R15 tyres all look new and have deep tread.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
The pale blue leather seats have a gentle patina – just nicely worn in and extremely comfortable – and the blue carpets are in fine condition with no rips or holes. The wooden dashboard is in original condition with just some slight cracking to the veneer, and the steering wheel surface has fingertip wear from being held onto over the years. The dash top is good with no visible cracks. A period Blaupunkt MW radio is fitted and there’s an eight-track tape player hidden under the driver’s side dash. Front-only inertia reel seat belts (there are mounting points in the rear) appear to work fine, likewise the air blower vent in the rear centre console.
UNDER THE BONNET
Many of the ancillaries have been painted, and the big twin SU carburettors appear to have been well-maintained. The inner wings have been painted but there is some surface rust showing in places. There are no obvious leaks to be found.
THE CCW VIEW
This very presentable XJ6 is fantastic to drive. It’s not quite in perfect overall condition, but all the better to use without having to worry about leaving it anywhere. XJ6 Series 1 values have been on the rise for a while, so the asking price looks fair. Well worth a closer look.
EXTERIOR No rust or dents Has been repainted INTERIOR Original wood and leather Pleasing patina MECHANICALS Smooth engine Silken ride quality