This is no barn find, rather a well-kept example of British Leyland's finest saloon from the 1970s. And, considering its provenance, rather affordable too
The second generation Jaguar XJ saloon may not be the collector's favourite, but to get your hands on what – according to the seller – is the very last XJ6 from that era should prove to be a great purchase, especially when priced at £10,995 ($14,150, €12,400).
Although infamous for quality issues throughout a turbulent time for the British automotive sector, where labour and union problems incurred a slow bankruptcy for some of the nation's beloved marques, the XJ6 Series II remains one of the finest driving cars of the time.
This 1978 example, finished in Moroccan Bronze with Cinnamon leather interior, has enjoyed the company of five custodians in total, three of which owned the car during the first four years of its life. There has been only two title holders in the last 37 years, and it’s now for sale on eBay.
Although the bodywork, interior, woodwork, exterior chrome, underside, wheels and floor are confirmed to be original, there is a surprising lack of information on the vehicle's trademark 4.2-litre straight-six engine. It would be a great shame if the powerplant is a replacement unit but, regardless of originality, it’s described as performing ‘superbly' and ‘quietly with good oil pressure’.
The current owner has clearly looked after the Jag, judging by its unblemsihed MoT history and high demand ‘XJ6’ registration plate. So, despite what public consensus would have proclaimed in the 1970s, this Series II XJ6 would make a fine purchase.
It’s rust free and boasts a smooth gearbox, full documentation recording its previous services (including 31 previous MOTs) and all the original handbooks, alongside a lifetime guarantee on its stainless steel exhaust. A Heritage Certificate is also included in the sale.
As a bonus, power assisted steering has been maintained to ensure it drives well enough to pass for a car with only a few years on the road, rather than four decades.
The 1978 Jaguar XJ6 Series II is currently located in Peterborough, and can be seen here. We think it's well worth spending your cash on.
