Jaguar XJ6 4.2 (S3)
ENGINE 4235cc/6-cyl/DOHC POWER 202bhp@5000rpm TORQUE 231 ft lb ft@4500rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 115mph 0-60MPH 10.4sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 19.1 mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, three-speed automatic MoT December 2020 ODOMETER 98,616 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
The venerable straight-six is eager to start, registering a healthy 50psi oil pressure with a leisurely tick over. Selecting Drive is clonkfree and each ratio change is smooth and instant. The engine delivers ample performance and the ‘airbed’ ride does a fine job of wafting you along, with even the roughest surfaces mattering little inside the cabin. Frequent small adjustments are needed in the light power-assisted steering at speed but feedback is reasonable and the all-disc brakes ensure positive stopping power.
BODYWORK CHECK
Panel fit is correct with no evidence of accident damage. The metallic Claret Red paint looks great from a few paces; paint blemishes and age marks are apparent only under close inspection. There’s a small mark on the nearside front wing and another on the windscreen surround, plus some touchedin paint chips on the sunroof’s offside edge. The chrome along the bumper’s top edge shows slight ageing but the grille and stainless wheel trims are in great order. The rear bumper has slight impact damage to the offside rubber insert and there is a minor chip on the base of the boot lid that requires touching in. The underside is impressive with no signs of corrosion, and the protective coating is light and even across the floor pans and structural points.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
The sand leather interior shows only light wear and no damage. All the dials and gauges work, including the clock. Luxury items include a factory-fitted Clarion radio/cassette player and electric windows, sunroof and aerial. The driver’s carpet could use a shampoo but the roof lining appears taut and undamaged. The veneer has lifted slightly around the glove box but only on the edge.
UNDER THE BONNET
It’s not concours but there are no fluid leaks. The car’s history file shows that its first owner was NatWest Bank, and contains 23 service stamps, the first 11 from main dealers, then specialists with the last being April 2019 at 96,227 miles. The MoT history dates back to 2005 at 89,500 miles confirming that this XJ6 has had limited use over the past 15 years. The rear brake pads and discs were replaced seven months ago and the car has recently been fitted with new Pirelli tyres. The current MoT is until December and the pack also includes original owner’s manuals.
THE CCW VIEW
This Jaguar will appeal to many enthusiasts’ wallets – a solid example that offers kerb appeal and a rewarding drive. Any new owner may look to the future for improvements to the paint or chrome, because this XJ6 is ready for the show season and looks good enough to attract attention. The interior and engine bay could be improved in time, but overall the basics are all good, not least of which is that silky-smooth sixcylinder engine.